While it may seem like an added expense, regular water heater maintenance can save you money in the long run. In this article, Mr. Rooter Plumbing explains how routine maintenance can save you big time.
Regular water heater maintenance prolongs the lifespan of your water heater. When you stay on top of routine maintenance, you are proactively decreasing the likelihood of premature failure. For instance, anode rod replacement prevents hot water tank corrosion, while regular draining keeps sediment buildup at bay. General inspections allow you to identify minor problems such as loose connections, corrosion, damaged gaskets, and faulty valves before they escalate. It’s recommended to schedule annual water heater inspections and have a professional plumber assess the condition of the unit.
However, it’s important to recognize that your water heater has a finite lifespan. Tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan as compared to storage tank water heaters. With good care, a tankless unit can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. In comparison, a storage tank water heater has a working life of 8-12 years. If your unit has reached the end of its lifespan, it’s best to invest in a water heater replacement.
- Improved Energy Efficiency
Sediment buildup is very common in homes with unfiltered and hard water. As time goes by, scale and sediment can accumulate at the bottom of the hot water tank and form an insulating layer. This will prompt your water heater to work harder to heat water, thereby increasing energy consumption. The buildup will also put unnecessary strain on the entire unit and lead to premature failure.
Draining your water heater at least twice a year or as needed ensures that it heats water more efficiently. It’s also a good idea to consider installing a water softener and a water filtration system to remove particulate matter and mineral ions from water. A professional plumbing service in West Palm Beach can test your water and help you choose the appropriate water treatment system. This will save you money down the road, prolong the lifespan of the heater, and ensure you enjoy a consistent supply of clean water.
- Staying Within Your Warranty
Your water heater comes with a warranty, and one of the requirements to keep it valid is regular maintenance. You may be tempted to skip routine checkups to save some money, but that would be counterproductive if you void the warranty. Having a trusted plumbing repair service inspect your water heater as required ensures your warranty is valid, thereby saving you money should you need water heater repair or water heater replacement down the road.
One of the consequences of neglecting your water heater is possibly coming back home to a flood. If you fail to notice a corroded hot water tank or a faulty drain valve, it’s only a matter of time before the unit springs a leak that will cost you hundreds of dollars on water damage cleanup and mold remediation. By scheduling regular water heater maintenance, a certified plumber can identify signs of corrosion, loose connections, and malfunctioning valves before they cause leaks. For gas-powered water leaks, regular inspections ensure that all safety mechanisms function correctly. The peace of mind that comes with knowing that your family is safe and your property is protected from potential dangers is invaluable.
For professional water heater services, call the experienced plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing. Our team is here to help you keep your water heater in tip-top shape and ensure it runs efficiently.
