You need access to hot water for cleaning your home, maintaining personal hygiene, and cooking. Your water heater must maintain a steady supply depending on your household size. Choosing the best water heater is just the first step; you must also maintain the appliance. Water heater maintenance services address all possible problems. Plumbers inspect and drain the tank, looking for corrosion. They can perform repairs or install a new water heater if needed. Follow this checklist, and learn about water heater maintenance.

Remove Sediment From the Tank

You should flush sediment out of the tank at least once a year. Even if you don’t see sediment in your tub, it’s still a good idea to drain the tank. The overaccumulation of sediment lets rust spread, and the tank could rupture. If you see water leaking, your water heater tank is already broken, and you need a new appliance.

Test Pressure Relief Valve and Anode Rod

The plumbers will test the pressure relief valve by placing a bucket beneath it. Turning the valve slowly, they’ll determine if the water flows freely and if the valve closes afterward. They will replace this component if water doesn’t flow from it or if it leaks once it’s closed.

For the anode rod, they’ll lift it out of the tank to check for corrosion. It should be replaced if there is significant rusting or pitting. However, if the anode rod is still viable, the plumber can apply thread sealant.

Test Thermostat and Heating Elements

A multimeter can gauge the voltage flowing to the thermostat. The pros establish that it is receiving adequate power. They test the thermostat by adjusting it to the lowest temperature setting. It should shut down. The plumbers turn it all the way up and see if the thermostat engages.

Plumbing pros test the heating element by disconnecting all wires. They’ll use a multimeter to test the voltage for each terminal. All terminals should have a reading of 10 to 30 OHMS. Any terminal with a reading less than 10 OHMS is faulty. They’ll replace all faulty terminals on the heating element. If all terminals are faulty, the plumber will install a new heating element.

Inspect the Insulation

The water heater insulation prevents temperature fluctuations because of the elements. Some water heaters are installed in basements. Unless you have a finished basement with climate control, insulation is vital. The plumber will inspect it for damage and signs of pests.

Tanked and tankless models can provide steady access to hot water. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your water heater functioning at peak performance. If you’re ready to schedule water heater maintenance, contact Turbo Plumbing & Rooter in Granada Hills, CA.