Tips for Maintaining Your Water Heater
Take care of your water heater this winter.
Most homeowners don’t give their water heater a second thought until it stops working. However, if you want to avoid taking icy showers this winter, you should be more proactive. Here are some easy tips to help you take care of your water heater this winter.
- Know Where It Is
While this sounds obvious, many homeowners don’t even know where to find their water heater. In most homes, the water heater is located in the garage or basement. Once you know where your water heater is, make sure that you can access it easily. This means clearing away any obstacles that might stand between you and your heater. Be especially careful to remove anything that blocks the plumbing heading towards and away from your water heater.
- Drain It
You should drain your water heater annually. Usually, draining one or two gallons of water is enough. However, if you notice any sediment or debris in the water, then a full flush will be necessary. Start by shutting off the heat and the water leading to the tank. Then, open up the drain and let all the water flow out. Turn the water back on and let it filter through the open drain. Once the water is clean, then close the drain and allow your tank to fill back up. When it’s re-filled, turn your heat back on and adjust the temperature to your liking.
- Inspect It
Finally, you should conduct an inspection of your water heater every year. Start by examining the piping leading to and from your heater. You should look for any signs that indicate wear or deterioration. You should also look for traces of soot or black residue around your water heater. This is a sign that your heater is suffering from a combustion issue. If you notice any of these problems, then make sure you call in a professional to make the necessary repairs.
Try out these tips to take care of your water heater. Remember, another thing you should worry about this winter is your various insurance policies. If you have questions regarding your coverage, then contact the team at Remland Insurance. Located in Orange, California, our dedicated professionals are ready to assist you with all your insurance needs.
