As winter rolls in, the need for a reliable water heater becomes more critical with colder temperatures and your water heater works overtime to keep up with the increased demand for hot water.
However, there are several myths surrounding water heater maintenance that can affect its performance.
Understanding these misconceptions can help you ensure your water heater is running efficiently and prevent costly repairs.
In this blog, we’ll address common water heater maintenance myths and explain why it’s essential to get help from a professional HVAC contractor.
Myth #1: You Don’t Need To Maintain Your Water Heater Regularly
Many homeowners believe that once they install a water heater, it will run smoothly for years with no need for regular maintenance. Unfortunately, this isn’t true. Like any other appliance, water heaters require routine maintenance to perform at their best.
In the winter months, water heaters work harder due to the cold water coming into the tank, so it’s crucial to schedule maintenance to keep it functioning properly.
Regular maintenance includes tasks like flushing the tank, checking for sediment buildup, and inspecting the thermostat. Ignoring this can lead to reduced efficiency and even system failure.
Myth #2: Flushing The Tank Is Only Necessary If There’s A Problem
Some people believe that they only need to flush their water heater if there’s a noticeable issue such as a lack of hot water or strange noises. However, sediment buildup in your water heater can happen gradually over time, especially in areas with hard water.
Sediment can settle at the bottom of the tank, causing the system to overheat and reducing its efficiency. Over time, this can lead to premature wear and tear. By flushing the tank once a year, you can prevent sediment buildup and extend the life of your water heater.
Myth # 3: Water Heaters Don’t Need To Be Insulated
Insulating your water heater is often overlooked, but it’s an important step in improving efficiency during the winter months. Many people assume that water heater insulation is unnecessary, but it’s one of the easiest ways to save energy and reduce heating costs.
Insulation helps retain heat within the tank allowing your water heater to work less and use less energy. Without proper insulation, your system must work harder to heat water, leading to higher energy bills.
To keep your water heater running efficiently this winter, make sure it’s properly insulated, particularly if it’s an older model.
Myth # 4: Higher Temperature Settings Equal More Hot Water
Some homeowners believe that setting their water heater’s thermostat to a higher temperature will provide more hot water. However, this can lead to excessive energy use and can even cause damage to your system.
Setting your water heater’s thermostat too high increases the strain on the system, leading to more wear and tear.
The ideal setting for your water heater is around 120°F. This temperature is hot enough for most household tasks, such as showering or washing dishes, but it’s also energy-efficient and prevents scalding.
Setting your thermostat too high will not give you more hot water, but it will make your system work harder.
Myth # 5: Water Heaters Don’t Need Annual Inspections
It’s easy to forget about scheduling an annual inspection for your water heater, especially if it’s working fine. However, water heaters should be inspected by a professional HVAC contractor every year to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
An HVAC expert can identify early signs of wear, leaks, or malfunctioning parts that may go unnoticed by homeowners. By getting an annual inspection, you can catch problems before they escalate into expensive repairs or replacements.
Early intervention can save you money and ensure your water heater operates efficiently throughout the winter season.
Myth # 6: You Can Fix Everything On Your Own
While there are some minor maintenance tasks you can do yourself, such as checking the temperature setting or insulating your tank, not all water heater issues should be handled without professional help. DIY repairs or neglecting serious problems can worsen the situation and cause more damage.
For example, issues like leaking tanks, malfunctioning thermostats, or pilot light problems require a skilled HVAC contractor to diagnose and fix.
Attempting to repair these issues yourself can void warranties and potentially lead to more costly repairs. It’s always best to call a professional to ensure your water heater is in top condition.
Myth # 7: Tankless Water Heaters Don’t Require Maintenance
Tankless water heaters are often seen as a low-maintenance option compared to traditional water heaters, but that’s not entirely true. While tankless water heaters do have some advantages, they still require regular maintenance to keep them running efficiently.
Tankless units need to be descaled periodically to remove mineral buildup, especially in areas with hard water. If left unchecked, this buildup can reduce the efficiency of the system and even cause it to fail.
Regular maintenance ensures that your tankless water heater continues to operate at its best and can help prevent costly repairs down the line.
Myth # 8: If You Have Hot Water, Your Water Heater Is Fine
Just because your water heater is producing hot water doesn’t mean it’s operating at its full potential. Water heaters can experience issues that don’t immediately affect their ability to produce hot water, such as a faulty thermostat, a leaking tank, or poor efficiency.
Sometimes, issues with the system are more subtle, such as inconsistent temperatures or fluctuating water pressure. If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to call an HVAC contractor for a thorough inspection.
Don’t wait until your water heater completely stops working before addressing any problems.
About Nor Can Heating And Air
Nor Can Heating And Air is your trusted partner for all things related to HVAC systems and water heaters. Whether you need a routine inspection or a more complex repair, our team of experienced contractors is here to help. With a commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction, we ensure your home stays warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient year-round.
Contact us today for expert water heater maintenance and HVAC services that keep your home running smoothly.
