Water heating units have a lifespan. Irrespective of what they are made of, even the expensive models will wear out at some point. The majority of water heaters can last between 10-15 years. Apart from routine maintenance, there are various ways you can prolong the system’s lifespan.
Flush the water heater once a year
Flushing a water heater is a simple procedure that removes the sediment and other minerals accumulating in the tank. It’s essential to flush the water heating unit at least once yearly to prevent premature failure. This also reduces the risks of being exposed to harmful chemicals and materials.
You need to switch off the power source and open all faucets. After that, run cold water via the pipes for at least one hour. Then, drain hot water from the top of the water heater into a container until it’s clear. Drain out another bucket or two from every faucet to remove any remaining sediments in the drainage system.
Replace the anode rod
The anode rods are magnesium or aluminum rods installed in the water heater tank to prevent corrosion. Without these metal rods, the tank will rust and even leak with time, causing significant damage to your home.
You know it’s time to replace the anode if you find leaks around the water heater. You might also notice brown discolouration on the outside walls of the tank. That indicates rusting inside the tank, and it’s time for another rod.
An anode rod has an average lifespan of five years. Therefore, it’s time for a replacement if it has worked for that long. A water heater tune-up by a professional will diagnose any issues before they worsen.
Opt for the expansion tank
An expansion tank is a safety gadget fixed to your water heater. It allows the system to expand as the temperature increases and contract as the temperature decreases. Without this device, your water tank can crack or burst if the pressure gets too low or high.
This device prevents damage to the heater and also leaks. When there is no pressure relief valve, hot water can fill up all the pipes when you turn on the faucet or flush the toilet. So, an expansion tank relieves that pressure to prevent water damage.
Testing the pressure relief valve
One of the critical safety features of a water heater is the pressure release valve. If the system overheats, the device will open to relieve pressure in the tank. With this, the tank won’t experience any damage like cracking.
You must frequently test the pressure release valve to ensure it works optimally. This will alert you to any potential issues before they get worse.
If you are like most property owners, you likely don’t know the type of pressure release valve your system has. To ensure the device works optimally, have it tested by an experienced plumber during the water heater tune-up.
Annual checks are an effective way to save money. A plumber might spot and offer water heater repair services instantly, so you do not need to worry about expensive surprises in the long run.
Endnote
It’s good to replace the water heater during its last years of life expectancy. This is to prevent breakdowns that can affect facility operations. Taking various steps to extend the water heater’s lifespan will save you money and from the hassles of operation interruption due to hot water issues.
