Water heaters are usually reliable and long-lasting, delivering hot water on demand for 10 years or more. Unfortunately, the dependability of these appliances often means homeowners forget about them until they break down. Keeping up a regular maintenance schedule and adopting a few conservation habits can reduce the risk of breakdowns and dramatically extend the life of your water heater.

How to Make Your Water Heater Last Longer

1. Schedule Maintenance Checks

Many water heater problems can be prevented with routine fixes, which also allow a professional to detect minor issues before they become major problems later on. During a maintenance inspection, a plumber will check the pipe fittings for leaks, replace worn-out parts, and clean the valves.

2. Test the Pressure Valve

If the water inside the tank gets too hot, the temperature pressure relief valve will open up to release built-up pressure. During your annual maintenance call, the plumber should open the valve a few times to ensure water is flowing smoothly. This is a vital safety feature, and a malfunctioning TPR valve should be replaced immediately.

3. Flush the Tank

Every four months, use the opening on the bottom of the heater to drain a few gallons of water into a bucket. If the water is dirty, rust-colored, or full of debris, the tank may be filling up with sediment that can interfere with the heating elements and cause premature breakdowns. A professional will be able to clean out vital components, change the anode rod, and remove mineral deposits that can eat away at the inside of the tank.

If you need emergency repairs or routine water maintenance, call Extreme Heating and Air Inc., the premier plumbing and heating service of Eagle River, AK. Their technicians offer a comprehensive range of services covering every system of your home, from heating and cooling to plumbing and gas. To discuss your project and schedule a service call, visit their website or call (907) 726-1805.