Maintaining Your Water Heater
Most people don’t have a clue that their hot water heater needs maintenance until they receive that rude awakening of only cold water in the shower! The life of a water heater varies depending on use and the overall quality of water that is utilized. Many living in Houston Midtown, Rice Military, Montrose and other fast growing areas of Houston are shocked to discover that their water heaters already need servicing. One factor that is contributing to an increased need for service is the amount of new construction and subsequent increase in new water connections. While not the sole cause of sediment build up some suggest increased back-flushing of Houston waterlines as a big culprit to increased sediment build-up in Houston water heaters.
Fortunately your hot water heater is generally an easy care appliance. There are only three regular tasks to remember.
1. Once every three months you need to drain one gallon of water from the tank. Having hard water, than you should drain one gallon every single month. This will reduce the amount of sediment collecting at the bottom of the tank and will cause your burner or heating coils to work overtime.
2. Once every two years have your hot water heater inspected by a professional. This will keep you heater in its best performance.
3. Once every five years have a service technician replace the anode rod. It is a small metal device that sacrifices itself for the unit and saves the water and chemicals from attacking your tank itself.
One of the most important rules is always shut off the power at the service panel and read the owners manual.