Your Guide to Maximize Your Water Heater's Lifespan - Essential Mainten...

Ensuring your water heater works efficiently for many years is a goal shared by homeowners across Austin and Marble Falls. Given our region's hard water and unique climate, regular maintenance becomes essential to extend the life of your water heater. Here’s how to ensure your unit keeps running smoothly.

Understand Your Water Heater's Needs

When it comes to maximizing your water heater's lifespan, understanding its specific needs is key. Austin's notorious hard water can leave mineral deposits in your heater, affecting efficiency and lifespan.

Addressing Hard Water

• Install a Water Softener: This can help prevent scale buildup inside your water heater.
• Regularly Flush Your Heater: Flushing every six months can remove sediment.

Routine Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance can stave off many issues that shorten your water heater's lifespan.

Flushing the Tank

Flushing your water heater involves draining the tank to eliminate sediment build-up. Here’s how:

1. Turn Off Power: Shut off the heater’s power source.
2. Connect a Hose: Attach a garden hose to the drain valve.
3. Drain the Water: Open the valve and let the water flow until clear.
4. Refill the Tank: Close the drain valve and refill your tank.

Check the Anode Rod

The anode rod protects your tank from rust. Checking it every two years can significantly extend the life of your heater.

• Inspect for Corrosion: Replace if heavily corroded.
• Replace Every 3-5 Years: Depending on water quality.

Common Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair

Staying vigilant about signs of trouble can prevent small issues from becoming expensive repairs.

Unusual Noises

Sounds like popping or rumbling indicate sediment build-up.

• Solution: Regular flushing can alleviate this.

Rusty Water

Rusty water could mean your heater’s lining or anode rod is corroding.

• Solution: Inspect and replace the anode rod promptly.

When to Call a Professional

Some issues require expert intervention to avoid further damage.

• No Hot Water: This could be a failed heating element or thermostat.
• Leaks: Any water leaks should be inspected immediately.

Austin-Specific Considerations

Living in Austin means dealing with hard water and high temperatures, both of which can impact your water heater.

• Summer Heat: Can increase the pressure in your tank.
• Hard Water: Leads to faster sediment build-up.

Consider scheduling annual professional inspections to manage these challenges effectively.

Need Help with Your Water Heater?

If you’re experiencing issues with your water heater or need professional maintenance to keep it running smoothly, call us at (512) 368-9159 today! Our Economy Plumbing Services team is here to help Austin homeowners with all their plumbing needs.