How to Maintain a Water Heater - Water Heater Maintenance



Maintain a Water Heater

Perform routine maintenance on your water heater every six months to insure proper functionality and prolonged use.

Planning

Both gas and electric water heaters have a safety device called a pressure relief valve. In the event the tank overpressurizes, the relief valve opens and releases the pressure. If the valve doesn't operate correctly, the tank can overpressurize and explode.
To check the pressure valve:
Step 1
Turn off the electricity to the water heater or turn the gas switch to pilot.

Step 2
Shut off the cold-water inlet to the water heater.

Step 3
Position the bucket to catch water from the pressure relief valve.

Step 4
Pull the trip lever on the valve. You should hear a slight rush of air or see some water and vapor exit through the pressure relief valve. If you don't, drain the tank and replace the valve.

Flush the Tank Every Six Months

Sediment buildup in the tank can reduce your water heater's energy efficiency and also clog your water lines. Avoid these problems, and increase the life of your unit by flushing the tank each time you check the pressure relief valve.
Following these simple maintenance procedures every six months will keep your water heater operating safely and efficiently for years.
To flush the tank:

Step 1
Turn off the electricity to the water heater or turn the gas switch to pilot.

Step 2
Shut off the cold-water inlet to the water heater.

Step 3
Connect a garden hose to the tank's drain valve.

Step 4
Locate the draining end of the hose in an area that won't be adversely affected by the scalding hot water.

Step 5
With the pressure relief valve open, open the drain valve and allow the tank to drain completely. Completely draining the tank ensures that you've removed all of the sediment possible.

Step 6
Close the tank drain valve, disconnect the hose from the valve and close the pressure relief valve.

Step 7
Open all the hot-water spigots in the house, and turn on the cold-water inlet to the tank.

Step 8
Close each hot-water spigot as water begins to flow from it. After all the spigots are closed, turn on the electricity to the water heater, or turn the gas switch to run.

Gas Water Heaters: Lighting the Pilot


Step 1
A newly installed gas water heater will have some air in the gas line. It may take several attempts to light the pilot. (Also, make sure the gas supply valve has been turned on).

Step 2
Whirlpool® gas water heaters feature an advanced gas valve with an LED (light-emitting diode) indicator. When the pilot light is lit and the unit is working normally, the red LED light will blink once every three seconds.

Step 3
The first time a gas water heater is started up, it'll produce condensation. You may hear dripping sounds or see a small puddle of water in the drain pan. Condensation is normal and will go away once the water heater has reached its normal operating temperature.

Electric Water Heaters: Before Connecting Electric Power


Step 1
The most common problem with electric water heaters is turning the power on before the tank is completely full of water. If this happens, the upper heating element will burn out, and you’ll have no hot water (until the upper element is replaced). Once you've installed the water heater, open a hot-water faucet all the way and let the hot water run for three minutes. This will ensure all of the air has been removed and the tank is completely full of water.

Step 2
If you don't have hot water after two hours, check to make sure the unit is getting the correct voltage. See the unit’s label for power requirements. No electric power or the wrong voltage causes many electric water heater problems. An electrician may be needed to solve wiring / power problems.

Leaks and Drips


Step 1
Most leaks are caused by faulty water supply connections. Use good materials and proper techniques and check your work carefully. Compression fittings are easier to use for DIYers (do-it-yourselfers) than soldering copper pipes.

Step 2
Drips from the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve discharge pipe usually mean a thermal expansion tank is needed.

Comments

  1. Plumbing is one of the professions that are highly rewarding and evergreen as the plumbing system is an essential part of every home, whether new or old.
    water heater maintenance

    ReplyDelete

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    ReplyDelete


  3. Found your blog. It is full of really good information. Thank you for sharing. If you ever need service on denver air conditioning please visit us at rheemteamcomfort.com. We would love it if you would have a look at some of our blogs and let us know your thoughts.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Water heaters are so important. Who doesn't love a hot shower in the morning? But I had no idea that they needed to be maintained so often! Your article was fantastic, and I really appreciate that you listed ways to maintain both gas and electric water heaters! I personally have a gas water heater in my home, and I'll make sure to follow your tips when I go to do a bit of maintenance! Thanks for the information! http://www.rapidplumbinglex.com/water-heaters

    ReplyDelete
  5. I have had trouble with my water heater for the longest time, but haven't wanted to call a plumber to look at it. Eventually I did, and he told me the same thing that your article mentions, that I should flush the tank every six months. I had no idea! But now I do, so thank you for the advice. http://www.abelplumbinginc.com/Water_Heaters.html

    ReplyDelete
  6. I have never known how to maintain the water heater before now. After my neighbor had some trouble with his heater, I decided to try and take better care of mine. I was unaware that I should flush the tank every six months, so thanks for the tip! http://www.2guysplumbingandheating.com

    ReplyDelete
  7. Thank you for sharing wander full tips about Commercial water heater
    maintenance. Keep it up.

    ReplyDelete

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