Water Heater Service

Just like your car or computer, a water heater needs a tune-up every now and then to make sure it’s running properly and to prevent any future catastrophes. As part of your annual spring cleaning, Make sure your water heater is clean, safe, and working at peak performance. 

 A water heater typically lasts between 8 and 12 years, but only if it is maintained properly. A simple four-step annual maintenance plan will extend the life of the water heater. 

Four-Step Water Heater Inspection 

#1 We do a flush

Prevent rust and corrosion by removing sediment from the bottom of the tank, a task that also improves the energy efficiency of the unit. A Flush works well, we take a fraction of the water out at a time, and can be done while the water heater is running:

#2 Test the T&P Valve

The temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve is a critical safety feature of your water heater. It senses dangerous pressure buildup or excessively high temperature inside the water heater tank and automatically opens to relieve the pressure. Without an operational T&P valve, a water heater is at risk of explosion. Therefore, water heater manufacturers recommend testing the T&P valve once per year.

#3 Dial Down the Temperature

Water heaters are typically installed at a preset temperature of 130 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends a setting of 120 F for most households, estimating that this can reduce energy costs for water heating by more than 5 percent. Lower temperatures also reduce the risk of scalding and slow the accumulation of mineral deposits in your water heater tank.

#4 Check all components of the water heater

 We check the unit for proper venting to make sure no poisonous gasses are escaping. We check for gas leaks and any corrosion that might need attention before it becomes a major problem.