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Your water heater plays an integral role in your daily life, making household routines easier and more comfortable. However, it needs a bit of TLC on your part to continue functioning properly. If you’re wondering what water heater maintenance tasks are safe to handle on your own, take advantage of the steps below.

3 DIY Water Heater Maintenance Tips

1. Insulate the Tank

Your water heater is designed to store the water it warms in a large reservoir tank until you call it up to sinks and showers by turning on the faucets. However, as the water sits unused, it will gradually cool off, forcing the machine to reheat it. This consumes more energy than is necessary, but you can prevent this by insulating the tank. Simply cut a sheet of foil-covered bubble wrap so that it’s large enough to envelop the pipes, valves, and temperature controls around the tank. Seal the seams with foil tape, but don’t cover the top of the tank.

2. Adjust the Temperature

water heaterEveryone has a different temperature preference for taking showers and baths or washing dishes, but did you know yours could affect the monthly utility bill? For every 10 degrees you lower the temperature setting on your tank, you can save up to 5% on your energy bill. Simply unscrew the cover over the dial and adjust it with a flathead screwdriver. If you’re going out of town, you can turn it to the lowest setting to save even more.

3. Clear the Vicinity

Most of the time, basements and garages are used as storage spaces. However, these spaces are also the home base for your water heater. Instead of stacking boxes and placing items in every available square inch, leave a few feet of space around your water heater. These appliances are powered by electricity, oil, natural gas, or propane, which means they need space for adequate ventilation. Leaving combustible materials less than 18 inches away from your water heater is a fire hazard. Plus, crowding the tank will make it much harder to spot leaks before they get out of control.

 

If your water heater needs of more advanced repairs, get in touch with Day’s Plumbing Supply of Lexington, KY. They have over 44 years of experience in supplying replacement parts to local property owners, from O-rings to water heater pumps. They also offer specialty pieces, including components for ornate and vintage plumbing fixtures. To learn more about their inventory, visit the website, or call (859) 254-6148 to speak with a staff member.

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