When the cold weather sets in, your home should still provide the necessary amenities to stay warm and comfortable. Maintaining your water heater will help ensure that you'll have hot water when you need it most. Here are several ways to prepare your water heater for fall and winter so that it doesn’t leave you in the cold.

3 Ways to Get a Water Heater Ready for Cold Weather

1. Check the Anode Rod

This component is aluminum or magnesium, and it attracts corrosive elements in the water to protect the tank against rust. To inspect the rod, turn off the water supply, and look at the top of the tank. The rod should be visible outside the basin, but in some cases, you may need to open the lid to find it. A typical rod will last for three to five years, but if you notice that its width is less than half of an inch, you should replace it.

2. Clean the Tank

Keep the tank free from sand and sediment to ensure that it heats the water without using more energy than necessary. To do this, you must drain the container once or twice a year. Turn off the water valve and power supply and connect a hose to let the tank water flow down the drain. Use cold water to flush the tank and remove the sediment buildup.

3. Ensure Proper Insulation 

A lack of insulation results in hot water cooling down faster than it should, leading to higher power bills as the appliance struggles to reheat the water. Many new tank models come with a tank cover, but if yours doesn't have one, you can insulate it with foil blankets. Wrap these around the top and outside of the tank to maintain the temperature inside. Aside from the container, you should also cover the pipes and valves for optimum performance. 

If you need a plumbing service provider to install and maintain a water heater, contact The Plumbing Source. Serving the Cleveland, OH, area since 1985, their experienced team handles furnace repair and installation, drain cleaning, sewer line cleaning, plumbing repairs, and other services. They offer affordable pricing, same-day service, and a one year warranty on all work. Call (877) 768-7239 to schedule an appointment. Visit them online for more information about their services.