Home Improvement

How to Increase Lifespan of Water Heater

A water heater can last anywhere between 8 and 12 years, with proper maintenance and service. The lifespan of a water heater can be dramatically extended with proper maintenance. In this article, we will outline some of the ways to extend the life of your water heater.

  1. Regularly Flush the Tank

Over time, sediment, minerals, and impurities will build up in your water heater’s tank, especially if you have hard water. Unless you flush the tank regularly, the buildup will reduce your water heater’s efficiency. You should flush the tank at least once every year to keep your water heater performing at its best.

  1. Perform Routine Maintenance

Following a routine water heater maintenance schedule can help keep your water heater in good working condition and prolong its life. Ideally, you should have your water heater serviced at least once per year by a professional plumber in Pittsburgh. Annual checks should be done to check the condition of the components of your water heater in Pittsburgh, check for signs of leaking or damage, or any other signs of trouble.

  1. Install A Water Softener

Hard water reduces the efficiency of a water heater in various ways. The minerals present in hard water create limescale that builds up at the bottom of a water heater’s tank. This not only lowers the efficiency of a water heater, but also increases heating bills. Installing a water softener in your home helps to remove minerals in hard water, thereby preventing the buildup of limescale in your hot water heater tank. If you have hard water in your home, call a reliable plumber in Pittsburg to help you install a water softener.

  1. Check The Pressure Release Valve

A pressure release valve is a built-in safety feature for your water heater. It opens automatically if the pressure in the tank becomes too high and releases pressure from inside the tank to prevent an explosion. To test the pressure release valve, lift up the tab on the valve to see if it releases some water. If no water is released, it’s time to install a new pressure release valve.

  1. Check The Anode Rod

The anode rod is a metal rod that mounts inside your storage tank and helps to attract corrosive elements in the water, thereby protecting the tank from rusting on the inside. The anode rod should be checked each year. If the anode rod is coated with calcium and less than half an inch, then it’s time to replace it.

Signs That Your Water Heater Needs to Be Replaced

  • You are getting rusty water out of the tap
  • The hot water tank is leaking
  • Your water heater is too old
  • The water heater makes unusual noises
  • Your water heater needs frequent repairs
  • There is inadequate heating

Call Neighborhood Plumbing for All of Your Water Heater Needs

If it’s time to replace your water heater in Pittsburgh, get in touch with Neighborhood Plumbing. We can help you with water heater replacement, water heater repair, and water heater maintenance.

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