A water heater is a necessary piece of equipment in your home. Keeping it well-maintained ensures a long life span and an efficient warm water when you need it. People who practice good habits with their water heater increase their chances of having success with their system. GNG Plumbing and The Hardware Store in Orange Beach, AL, lists five things to know.

5 Steps to Take to Ensure Success With Your Water Heater

1. Know Your System

Knowing what type of water heater you have and where it is located are the first steps in successful ownership. Make sure you have a clear path for easy access and that you are aware of the power source your system runs on. Water tanks can be natural gas, electric, propane, or solar. Do you have a tank, or is it tankless? You should also know the serial number and age of the equipment.

2. Shut-Offs

There are a few valves you should be familiar with, which will help during maintenance and repair. Locate the shut off for the power supply that leads to your water heater. It is also beneficial to know where your main gas shut off is, as well as how to cut power from your circuit breaker panel. Finally, find the water shut off, an important valve if you need to cut the water supply quickly.

3. Plumber Info

Have your plumber’s phone number nearby in case of an emergency with your water heater. Keep it in an easy-to-see area as well as in your cell phone’s contact list. This way, anyone in the house can call if there is an issue and you can contact them from anywhere.

4. Maintenance Schedule

Sticking to a regular inspection and maintenance plan even if your water heater is in good shape will extend its life span and help you avoid costly repairs and replacements. Inspection schedules vary depending on how many people are in your home. For one or two people, every six months is ideal. For bigger households, check your system every four months.

5. Drain & Flush

Along with regular inspections, your water heater should be flushed annually to remove sediment buildup in your tank. If there is a lot of debris, a full flush is necessary to thoroughly clean it out. Always let the water flow for about a minute to fully remove leftover sediment.

For reliable plumbing services in Orange Beach and Fort Morgan, trust GNG Plumbing and The Hardware Store. With more than 30 years of experience and complete knowledge in home maintenance and renovation, this team will assist you with anything from water heaters to plumbing installations in remodeling projects. To learn more about these plumbers or their hardware products, call (251) 974-5630 or visit them online.