Most appliances in your home require maintenance—some require more frequent service than others, while some only need yearly attention to keep them in working order. The 24 hour plumbing service, Plumbing Systems in Lexington, KY, explains why your water heater benefits from an annual flushing to keep it running smoothly and avoid plumbing repair.

Your water heater is generally a low maintenance part of your home once it’s installed and the temperature is set, but a small bit of maintenance is required to keep it functioning efficiently. One of the best things to do is flush the water heater by draining several gallons via the drain valve. By flushing the water, you remove any sediment and minerals that may have settled at the bottom of the tank, especially in areas with hard water.

Small solids and minerals that build up over time will hinder optimal performance of your water heater and will shorten its lifespan. Before draining your tank, be sure to turn off the tank and be cautious of the hot water inside. It’s best to allow several hours to pass so the water can cool before attempting to flush the system. The amount of sediment coming out will determine how many gallons you should drain (more sediment means more water should be flushed). When the water runs clean, you should be sediment-free.

Flushing the water heater also can help to locate bigger issues in your tank. If heavy white sediment comes out, this may mean the anode rod inside the tank has deteriorated and needs to be replaced. You should call your local plumbing repair experts to assist with any water heater replacement or maintenance services.

Lexington’s Plumbing Systems is a locally owned and operated full service company offering 24 hour plumbing for both residential and commercial clients. Their plumbing repair options include water heater replacement, drain cleaning, sump pump maintenance, and more. The plumbing company offers veteran and senior discounts, as well as $10 off services for customers who post a review for them online.

Lexington’s Plumbing Systems’ service extends from Lexington to surrounding counties, and their emergency 24-hour plumbing service provides peace of mind to all of their customers. For an appointment, give them a call at (859) 294-8080 or visit their website, where you can fill out their online service request form.