You rely on your water heater to provide your home with a heated water supply, but you might not give it a second thought until something goes wrong. Performing some routine maintenance will add years to its life span and prevent issues that could cause thousands of dollars in damage. Below are a few tips for keeping your water heater working smoothly.

A Guide to Maintaining Your Water Heater

1. Drain the Sediment

Over time, particles settling in the bottom of the tank can contribute to corrosion and clog up the valves. To flush out the bank, turn off the power and attach a hose to the heater’s drain valve. After draining the water, turn the cold supply on for a few minutes. Repeat this process until the water flowing out of the hose is cold and clear of sediment.

2. Turn Down the Temperature

Having the temperature on your water heater set too high wastes energy and puts unnecessary pressure on the heating element. Turning the temperature down to 120 degrees could save hundreds of dollars a year. As a bonus, it can even extend the life of your equipment.

3. Test the Pressure-Relief Valve

The pressure-relief valve is a safety device that lets water out if the pressure inside the tank gets too high. Turn off the power and cold water supply, then briefly pull up the tab on the valve, which is usually located on the top or side of the tank. If water keeps dripping when the valve is closed, you may need to have it replaced.

4. Schedule Professional Maintenance

Many water maintenance tasks are too complex for most homeowners. A professional can inspect your water heater, check the condition of the heating elements, clean vital components, and recommend repairs before something goes wrong.

If your water heater is breaking down or you just need some routine maintenance, the experts at Glorieta Creek Mechanical will provide fast, reliable service you can count on. Their team has been serving Sante Fe homeowners for nearly 15 years, delivering excellent results on every job. Visit their website to find out about their water heater services, follow their Twitter for more tips and advice, or call (505) 757-8872 to schedule an appointment.