What to Know About Water Heater Maintenance | HendrixAir 

To ensure the hot water flows smoothly, our team at HendrixAir recommends following these water heater maintenance tips. Read the article, then call us!  

Whether you have a traditional or tankless water heater, regular maintenance can significantly extend its lifespan and improve efficiency. 

Trust us, keeping your water heater well-maintained can save you from unexpected cold showers and costly repairs. While some tasks are perfect for a DIY approach, others may require professional expertise.  

To keep your water heater in top shape we recommend: 

  • Regular Inspection: Check for any leaks, corrosion, or unusual noises as these can be early signs of trouble. 
  • Temperature Settings: Ensure your heater is set at the optimal temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding and save energy. 
  • Flushing the Tank: Removing sediment build-up at least once a year can help maintain efficiency and prevent damage. 
  • Anode Rod Check: Inspect and replace the anode rod every few years to protect the tank from rust. 
  • Professional Maintenance: Schedule a professional inspection annually to ensure everything is functioning correctly and safely. 

Our team at HendrixAir covers these maintenance tasks and more in the guide below. 

Understanding Your Water Heater 

Every water heater features key parts such as the tank or heat exchanger, thermostats, heating element or burner, and anode rod. These all work in harmony to ensure you have a steady supply of hot water.  

Water heaters generally fall into two categories: tank-style and tankless. A tank-style heater stores a specific amount of hot water in a reservoir and is the most common type found in households. A tankless water heater heats water on demand, offering a more energy-efficient solution as it eliminates the need for constant heating.  

Water Heater Maintenance Tasks 

While traditional tanked water heaters and their tankless counterparts may serve a similar purpose, their maintenance tasks differ slightly.  

For Tanked Water Heaters: 

  • Flushing the Tank: Regularly flush your water heater to remove sediment build-up. This can help enhance heating efficiency and prolong the system’s life. 
  • Testing the Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve: Ensure your TPR valve, which prevents tank pressure from getting too high, is functioning correctly to maintain safety and efficiency. 
  • Inspecting the Anode Rod: The anode rod helps prevent the tank from rusting. Check it annually; if it’s less than half an inch thick or coated with calcium, consider replacing it. 
  • Checking for Leaks and Rust: Inspect the area around your water heater for any signs of moisture or corrosion. Addressing these issues early can prevent more significant damage. 
  • Setting the Temperature: Adjust the thermostat to 120°F for a balance between comfort and energy savings. 

For Tankless Water Heaters: 

  • Descaling: Because tankless systems heat water on demand, mineral scaling can occur over time. Descale your unit every year or more frequently if you have hard water to ensure smooth operation. 
  • Cleaning the Air Intake Filter: Clear any debris from your tankless water heater’s air intake filter to ensure proper airflow and efficient combustion. 
  • Flushing the System: Flushing your tankless system with a vinegar solution annually removes mineral buildup and keeps it running efficiently. 
  • Checking the Inlet and Outlet Valves: Regularly inspect these valves for any leaks and ensure they are functioning correctly to prevent water loss or damage. 
  • Monitoring Error Codes: Stay attentive to any error codes displayed. These are indicators that your unit may need professional maintenance or repair. 

Ultimately, understanding the distinct maintenance tasks for both tanked and tankless water heaters can help you enjoy a longer-lasting and more efficient unit. While some tasks can be tackled on your own, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals at HendrixAir for comprehensive care.  

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Attention 

Recognizing when your water heater needs attention can prevent bigger headaches down the line. If you notice a decrease in water pressure or inconsistent heating, it’s a clear sign that something might be off. Pay attention if your hot water starts to have a strange discoloration or odor; this could indicate sediment buildup or corrosion. Another red flag is rumbling noises coming from your water heater, often a result of sediment hardening inside the tank. Last, a sudden increase in water bills without any change in your usage could suggest inefficiencies in your water heater’s performance.  

By keeping an eye out for these signs, you can catch potential problems early and maintain the efficiency and effectiveness of your water heater.  

When to Call HendrixAir 

While DIY maintenance can help keep your water heater in good shape, there are certain situations where calling in the professionals at HendrixAir is the best idea. If you notice unusual noises, insufficient hot water, or signs of corrosion, it’s time to contact us. Additionally, if any component won’t budge or you notice a leak, avoiding further damage by seeking expert help is wise.  

An annual professional inspection is not just about keeping your water heater efficient; it’s about safety too. This is particularly important if you have a gas water heater, as handling gas components can be risky.  

Lean on Our Experts  

Don’t wait for a small issue to turn into a major problem. Our Brunswick, Georgia team is ready to provide professional and reliable service to ensure your water heater runs efficiently year-round. Let us handle the hard work while you enjoy peace of mind knowing your home’s hot water needs are in capable hands! 

Call HendrixAir today to schedule some TLC for your water heater and say goodbye to any potential hot water hiccups! 

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