Nothing is more disruptive to your morning routine than a broken water heater. It’s cold and unpleasant to take an icy shower. But it doesn’t just end there; you also have the hassle of finding someone reliable who can repair or replace your existing water heater so you can get back up and running quickly.
Fortunately, this blog post will provide you with helpful advice on what steps you should take when dealing with a water heater breakdown. Read on for useful tips and information.
If you need repair or maintenance services for your water heater and live in the Chicago area, check out https://jblantonplumbing.com/water-heater-services/.
Check the temperature and pressure relief valve to ensure it’s functioning properly
The temperature and pressure relief valve of your water heater is important for both safety and proper performance. It should be checked at least once a year to ensure that it’s in good working order. To do this, locate the valve near the top of your water heater tank. If you can’t identify it, consult the owner’s manual or an experienced plumber.
Once you locate the valve, open it to allow a slow stream of water to escape and then close it again. If more than a trickle is coming out, the valve may need to be replaced, as this means that too much pressure is building up in your tank.
If the valve doesn’t open and close properly, it’s likely damaged and will need to be replaced. If the valve isn’t functioning at all, you should call a professional plumber to inspect the water heater and determine whether repairs or replacement is necessary.
Inspect the anode rod for corrosion and replace it if necessary
The anode rod is one of the most important components of a water heater, as it helps protect your tank from corrosion and rust. To inspect it, simply unscrew the anode rod at the top of your water heater tank with a wrench or socket wrench. If you can’t identify it, consult the owner’s manual or an experienced plumber.
If the anode rod is covered in corrosion, it needs to be replaced before any further damage can occur. A corroded anode rod will cause your water heater to waste energy and reduce its efficiency, resulting in higher-than-usual energy bills. The replacement of a corroded anode rod should only be done by a qualified professional.
If you’re uncertain whether or not the anode rod needs to be replaced, it’s best to call in a licensed plumber for an inspection and assessment. Not only will this ensure that your water heater is safe and functioning properly, but it will also help extend its lifespan.
Flush out any sediment buildup in the tank to maintain efficiency
When sediment accumulates in your water heater tank, it not only reduces the efficiency of the system but can also lead to dangerous pressure buildup. To prevent these issues, it’s important to flush out any sediment accumulation periodically.
To do this, turn off the power or gas supply to the unit and attach a garden hose to the tank. Open up a hot water faucet and run the hose for approximately 20 minutes to flush out any sediment that’s built up in the tank. Once you’re done, disconnect the garden hose and turn on the power or gas supply to your water heater again.
It’s important to note that flushing out your water heater should only be done by a qualified professional, as mistakes can cause the tank to over-pressurize or rupture. If you’re unsure how to flush out your water heater properly, it’s best to call in a licensed plumber for assistance.
Adjust the thermostat setting to prevent damage from high heat levels
The thermostat on your water heater is responsible for maintaining the temperature of the water. If it’s set too high, not only can this lead to an uncomfortable shower or bath, but it can also cause damage to your plumbing system. To prevent these issues from occurring, it’s important that you adjust the thermostat setting to the optimal temperature.
To adjust the thermostat, locate the valve near the top of your water heater tank and open it slowly. If you can’t identify it, consult the owner’s manual or an experienced plumber. Once you’ve located it, dial down the thermostat until you hear a click sound. Then, close the valve and test the water to make sure it has reached your desired temperature.
Conclusion
When your water heater breaks down, it can be a hassle to get it up and running again. However, with the right maintenance and repairs, you’ll be able to restore your water heater’s functionality in no time. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be able to keep your water heater running efficiently and effectively.
If you require any additional assistance with your water heater, don’t hesitate to call a qualified professional for help. With their expertise and knowledge, they’ll be able to have your water heater back up and running in no time.
