For most homeowners, warm water is an essential part of life. We use our water heaters every time we take a long hot shower, soak in the tub, sanitize our dishes, and prepare food! Yet at Gotelli Plumbing, we understand that water heaters aren’t invincible. They wear out over time, just like any other household appliance.
Our team of local plumbers is here to assist you when it comes to high-quality water heater repairs or replacements with just a click of a button! Read on for more info about heater failure and how to extend its lifespan below.
Tanked Heaters
Do you have a tanked heater in your home? Though these heaters are standard, they often require frequent maintenance because of increased corrosion risks and last only 8 to 12 years. Water tanks are originally manufactured with coatings that slow down rust formation, but over time this glaze disappears.
If you notice your water looks murky, has a reddish or yellowish tint, or tastes funny, your tank has contaminated it. Strange temperature fluctuations are another sure sign that your water heater needs to be looked at.
Tankless Heaters
Have a tankless water heater instead? A tankless system is engineered to produce hot water on demand without needing a place to store it. Yet tankless heaters come with their share of issues. Here are some of the most common signs your unit needs to be checked:
- Heating component issues
- Machinery malfunctions
- Other appliances breaking down
- Tankless system shutting off for no reason
- Clogged filters
- Insufficient ventilation for exhaust
- Loose valves causing leaks
If you begin to hear strange noises, such as screeching, scraping, or thumping, combined with any of these problems, it is wise to call a professional as soon as possible.
How to Extend the Life of Your Heating Unit
It’s always inconvenient when something breaks down due to old age, yet most water heater issues are preventable with the proper surveillance and care. Here are some tips and tricks we recommend:
Check Your Pressure Valve
Most water heaters are equipped with a temperature-pressure relief valve as a precautionary measure. This component opens if heat builds up too much within your unit. Checking regularly for valve blockage is vital for your water heater’s lifespan.
Schedule a Maintenance Flush
It is not uncommon for sediment and debris to accumulate in your water heater. These particles can settle in your tank and erode the walls if left unchecked, as well as overwork the machine as it tries to heat your water. Making an appointment with your local plumber for a maintenance flush once a year can resolve this problem easily.
Purchase Water Softener
Buying a water softener can help your heater immensely. These devices combat hard water minerals instantly and reduce the risk of sediment buildup and corrosion.
Contact Gotelli Plumbing Today!
Learning about water heater maintenance is one of the quickest ways to save money and improve the lifespan of your unit. If you’ve noticed warning signs, don’t hesitate to call the plumbers at Gotelli Plumbing! Our professional team is happy to assess your heating system and make sure it is running in tip-top condition at any time. For all your water heater replacements and repairs, contact us today!
