If you have a water heater in your home you know how important it is that it is kept running smoothly. Without a functioning water heater in Downriver Michigan, you have no hot water for showers, laundry or even doing dishes. Your water heater will typically last around eleven years, but that is only with proper maintenance. To keep it running smoothly and get the most out of your hot water heater, it is important to perform regular steps.

Maintaining Your Water Heater in Downriver Michigan Correctly

A broken water heater can cause all sorts of frustration. And with the colder weather on the horizon that makes having a properly working water heater that much more important. Let’s face it, no one wants to take a shower in cold water when it’s below freezing outside.

It’s also important to mention that the water heater in your home may sound simple and something that anyone can work on or do these steps but it’s always best to have a properly qualified plumber to service the water heater. There is an electrical hazard present and for gas-powered water heaters you may have a problem with the lines and such. So be sure to only call a plumber when you need water heater service.

Check The Temperature Of Your Water Heater

Maintaining your water heater isn’t just about you avoiding having to take a cold shower. It is important to make sure your water heater isn’t set at a temperature too high either. If your water heater is too hot it can cause minerals to build up quickly. That means your pipes also experience the extra minerals and can begin to corrode.

Most manufacturers set your water heater to a default temperature. If this is above 120 degrees Fahrenheit, then it is set too high. Just because it is a default setting, doesn’t mean it is correct for your home. Temperatures set too high not only affect your pipes, but also can cause scalding to your skin. It is recommended that you check your water heater after it is installed to make sure it is at the proper temperature, and them once a month after that.

Regularly Drain Your Tank

Over time your water heater can build up sediment. As it fills your tank it makes your water heater far less effective. To prevent this from occurring it is important to regularly drain your water tank. It is recommended that you do this at least three times a year, but you can do it as often as you like beyond that.

To drain your water heater you will first need to turn off the cold water supply. You can then use an ordinary garden hose and connect it to the drainage valve. You can then drain out around a quarter of the tank, or until the water runs clear.

Make Sure The Pressure Relief Valve Is Working

Water heaters come with a test lever to help guarantee you are getting the right amount of pressure through your pipes. When the test lever is raised and then lowered it should let out a large burst of hot water into the drainpipe. This should happen every time you do this, no matter how often this is done. If your pressure is too low it can be a sign of debris clogging the way, or other issues that are complicating your water heater’s ability to do its job.

If You Are Still Having Issues

When these tests come back problematic, you should look into professional help to resolve it. If your water heater is causing you problems in any other way, then it is important to call a plumber. A professional plumber can not only identify the problems, but fix them and suggest ways to prevent it from reoccurring in the future.

Call a Professional Plumber in Downriver Michigan

When you have any sort of problems with your water heater in Downriver Michigan it’s always best to call a properly licensed and qualified plumber. A professional plumber will have the proper tools and can properly diagnose and repair your water heater if needed. One of the best is Downriver Plumbers and they offer all types of plumbing services in Downriver Michigan. Call them today at 734-548-9925.