Are you seeking to maintain a cozy and warm home during the cold winter season? One crucial element you must prioritize is your water heater. A dependable water heater serves as the foundation of a comfortable living environment, supplying hot water for bathing, cleaning, and various household tasks.
To keep your water heater running efficiently and avoid unexpected breakdowns, it’s crucial to be aware of the common maintenance mistakes that many homeowners make. At Nor Can Heating, we offer professional and reliable furnace maintenance services for Edmonton residents.
In this blog, we’ll delve into some common mistakes and offer valuable water heater maintenance tips to help you maintain your appliance effectively.
1. Neglecting Regular Inspections And Maintenance
One of the most significant mistakes homeowners make is neglecting routine inspections and maintenance for their water heaters. Regular check-ups can help identify minor issues before they escalate into major problems.
It is recommended to schedule a professional inspection by a water heater maintenance professional at least once a year to ensure its optimal condition.
2. Ignoring Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment and minerals can accumulate at the bottom of your water heater tank. Ignoring this buildup can lead to decreased efficiency and even damage to the heating elements. Flushing the tank regularly can help remove sediment, ensuring efficient heat transfer and prolong the lifespan of your water heater.
3. Setting The Temperature Too High
While having hot water readily available is convenient, setting the temperature too high can be a costly mistake. Not only does it increase the risk of scalding, but also leads to excessive energy consumption. The recommended temperature setting for most households is around 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius), balancing safety and energy efficiency.
4. Overlooking Pressure Relief Valve Testing
The pressure relief valve is an essential safety component of your water heater, responsible for releasing excess pressure and preventing the tank from bursting. Regularly testing the pressure relief valve ensures its proper functionality and helps prevent hazardous pressure buildup. This practice plays a vital role in effectively maintaining your water heater.
5. Neglecting Anode Rod Replacement
An anode rod is a sacrificial component that attracts corrosive elements in the water, protecting the inner lining of your water heater tank. Over time, it can become depleted and need replacement. Neglecting anode rod maintenance tasks can result in corrosion, leading to leaks and premature failure of the water heater.
6. Failing To Insulate The Pipes
Insulating the hot water pipes is crucial for water heater maintenance. It can significantly reduce heat loss during transit. Failing to insulate the pipes can lead to energy waste and longer wait times for hot water at the faucets. Proper pipe insulation conserves energy, reduces utility bills, and provides quick access to hot water.
7. Overlooking Insulation
Proper insulation can improve the energy efficiency of your water heater by reducing heat loss. Unfortunately, many homeowners overlook this simple yet effective maintenance step. By insulating your water heater and its pipes, you can minimize standby heat loss and reduce the workload on your water heater, resulting in lower energy bills.
Insulation kits are readily available at most hardware stores, and the installation process is relatively straightforward.
8. Attempting DIY Repairs
While it’s admirable to take a hands-on approach to household maintenance, attempting complex repairs on your water heater without the necessary expertise can lead to costly mistakes. Water heaters are complex systems that require specialized knowledge to diagnose and fix issues properly.
When encountering a problem, it is always advisable to seek assistance from a qualified technician who can assess the situation and offer the appropriate solutions.
9. Disregarding Strange Noises Or Odours
Your water heater shouldn’t be making loud noises or emitting strange odours. These signs could indicate underlying problems, such as sediment buildup, a faulty heating element, or even a gas leak. If you notice any unusual noises or odours coming from your water heater, it’s crucial to address them promptly by calling a professional technician. Ignoring these warning signs could lead to more significant issues down the line.
Also Read: Is Your Water Heater Making Strange Noises?
10. Skipping Professional Maintenance
Many homeowners make the mistake of assuming that as long as their water heater is functioning adequately, there’s no need for professional maintenance. However, that is not the case. Regular maintenance by a qualified technician is essential to keep your water heater running smoothly and efficiently.
A professional can inspect, clean, and fine-tune your unit, ensuring optimal performance and extending its lifespan. Additionally, regular maintenance can help identify and resolve potential problems before they escalate.
About Us
Nor-Can Heating & Air is Edmonton’s premier HVAC company that specializes in the maintenance, repair, and installation of air conditioning, heating, and ventilation units. With our team of reputable and highly experienced HVAC professionals, we take pride in assisting our customers in selecting the right heating, ventilation, and cooling systems tailored to their unique HVAC needs.
We are committed to providing the best value for money to our customers. Contact us now for all your HVAC needs.
