Spring cleaning is the best time to arrange inspection and maintenance for your home appliances, especially the water heater. Including an inspection of your water heater in your annual spring-cleaning regime goes a long way toward making sure that you don’t face sudden breakdowns and repair bills that could otherwise have been avoided.

The Importance of Flushing the Tank

A standard water heater with a tank for hot-water storage needs to be flushed out once a year, especially if you have hard water. Minerals from the water build up and deposit sediment in the tank. This can interfere with proper flow, cause the device to waste energy by heating more slowly, and worse. It can eventually lead to corrosion that compromises the tank and creates leaks.

Spotting Warning Signs for Early Repairs

Paying attention to warning signs so you can have early repairs for your home’s water heater is a great way to keep it efficient and save money. You should check for signs of leaks or water pooling, which could indicate a hole or crack in the tank. Also, if you notice any rust on the surface of the tank or the water is tinted, this usually means that there is rust inside the tank. Unusual noises, like banging or rumbling, typically indicate that there is sediment accumulation in the tank that could interfere with the heating element.

Additionally, fluctuating water temperature or a noticeable decrease in the hot water output can signal issues with the heating element or thermostat. These temperature inconsistencies can be frustrating and may lead to higher energy consumption as the unit struggles to maintain the set temperature.

Annual Water Heater Inspections

Your water heater should be serviced regularly to prolong its life and functioning. Most times, maintaining the heater requires draining the tank to remove sediment that impacts its efficiency and heating capability. Over time, sediment can insulate the heating element, which means the water heater has to work harder to keep up with demand, and this could increase your energy costs.

Inspecting the anode rod is also very important, as the rod protects the tank from corrosion. If it stops doing its job, the degradation will eventually necessitate a complete replacement of your home’s water heater. Also, checking to make sure the thermostat is functioning well means that it will keep the water heater at the desired temperature, without overheating or underheating.

Seeking Professional Expertise

Getting help from a professional plumber is essential for your spring inspection and cleaning. It will reveal any signs of serious wear or malfunction. Professional maintenance is always best done in the spring while you are cleaning and updating other parts of your home. This allows for post-winter recovery and maximizes efficiency for the summer months.

Contact us at Turbo Plumbing & Rooter for quality water heater services in Granada Hills, CA.