The water heater may not be a household appliance that gets much thought, but when you are standing in a cold shower it will suddenly become apparent that maintaining it is important. Here are some useful suggestions to keep the water heater operating correctly.
Know the Location
It may sound obvious, but before you can properly take care of the water heater, you need to know where to find it. If you have recently purchased a home, check out the basement or attic to find its exact location. It is also important to make sure the area around it is cleared out for safety reasons and also to allow for easy access.
Find Out What Type of Water Heater You Have
It may be natural gas, electric or propane, and it may or may not have a tank. Also take note of the model and serial number to refer to in case repairs are needed.
Know the Components of the Unit
You should know how to adjust the water temperature and keep it at an optimal 120 degrees, how to shut off power to the unit, how to shut down the water supply, and how to locate the gas supply shut-off valve.
Thoroughly Inspect it Every Year
There are some important maintenance tasks that should be completed regularly, either by you or by a professional. Draining the water supply regularly helps reduce the amount of sediment that builds up. The anode rod inside the tank should be inspected to make sure it is in good condition, and the pressure relief valve should be checked to make sure it isn’t clogged.
Keeping the water heater properly maintained can extend its life and cut down on repair costs. When you hire Lakes Area Home Inspections to inspect a home, will look at the water heater, checking for signs of rust, leaks or other malfunctions and include the findings on our detailed reports. Contact us at 262-818-0911 to schedule your appointment or for more information.