While it is less likely to freeze than the rest of your plumbing, your water heater can still be sensitive to cold temperatures. It takes more energy to keep a tank of water hot in a cold environment, and the pipes leading to and away from the appliance can still freeze. To prevent any problems, prepare your water heater for winter with the following steps.

Steps to Winterize Your Water Heater

Perform Basic Maintenance

Your water heater needs several parts checked and cleaned each year, so it makes sense to do this maintenance while making your wintertime preparations. First, open your water heater and check the anode rod. If it’s eaten away or covered in calcium deposits, it needs to be replaced. Next, empty and flush out the tank to get rid of trapped sediment that builds up over time. Keep flushing it until the water runs clear. Look into the water heater’s exhaust and intake to make sure there’s no debris and no animals have taken up residence. Finally, go over the tank for signs of leaks or rust. If you see them, call a plumber for a more thorough inspection and repairs.

Insulate

The better insulated your water heater, the more easily it will retain heat and the less energy it will use, especially in cold weather. Add insulation to both the tank and the surrounding pipes. If your water heater is in an unheated area like a shed, garage, or basement, you should also add a layer of insulation to the room.

Install Safety Features

If you’re going on vacation, it’s important to protect your home while you’re away. Open the pressure release valve on your water heater—it should vent hot air, steam, or possibly a small amount of water if it’s working correctly. You might also consider installing a flood-stop system, which will cut off the water supply if it detects a leak from your water heater.

If you need help preparing your water heater for winter or find any problems while you perform your maintenance, call All American Plumbing in Concord, NC. For 30 years, this Cabarrus County plumber has offered competitive and hassle-free pricing on their fully licensed and insured plumbing installation and repairs. To schedule a visit, call (704) 788-8690 or reach out online.