Water heaters are essential for modern life. As a homeowner, you can take steps to avoid expensive water heater repairs by ensuring your system is regularly maintained and checked for problems. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the top tips that homeowners can use for water heater repair in Columbus, OH.
It’s important to understand how water heaters work so that any potential problems or issues can be addressed quickly. Generally speaking, water heaters draw cold water into a storage tank and then use either gas or electricity to heat up the liquid. By utilizing insulation, these tanks keep the hot water inside while preventing energy loss from escaping through walls or floors.
To ensure your unit continues to provide hot water when you need it most, follow the tips outlined below.
- Install an expansion tank:
An expansion tank is an important part of any water heater system and should be installed in the plumbing system before a water heater unit. Expansion tanks are designed to absorb excess pressure that can build up in the funneling lines, which can be caused by temperature fluctuations or trapped air. This helps prevent burst pipes or other plumbing-related problems that can occur due to pressure build-up.
- Check your water filter regularly:
Water filters help to capture sediment and other foreign particles from entering your home’s plumbing system, which can cause scale build-up and damage over time. To keep your unit running optimally, it’s important to check your filter regularly and make sure that it is not clogged or blocked with debris.
- Utilize maintenance programs:
Many manufacturers offer maintenance programs for their water heaters that can help keep them running smoothly. Generally, these programs will include regular inspections, repairs, and cleaning services to ensure that any issues are caught early on and addressed quickly, potentially saving you time and money in the long run.
- Schedule yearly servicing from a professional:
To keep your water heater running optimally, it is recommended that homeowners schedule yearly servicing from a professional plumber. Regular servicing can help spot any potential problems, as well as cleanout sediment build-up and check for leaks or other issues.
- Insulate pipes and tanks:
Insulating exposed pipes and tanks helps to reduce heat loss which may otherwise occur due to temperature fluctuations. This can save energy and money in the long run, as well as extend the life of your water heater.
- Check for water leaks:
Water leaks can be caused by a number of issues, such as broken pipes or valves. To prevent costly repairs, it is important to regularly check your system for any signs of leaking water. If a leak is found, contact a professional plumber immediately to fix the issue before it worsens.
- Invest in a tankless water heater:
A tankless water heater is a great way to save energy, as it does not require a storage tank of hot liquid and instead provides heated water on demand. Tankless systems are typically more efficient than traditional tank-style models, so investing in one may result in lower utility bills over time.
A tankless water heater in New Albany is an increasingly popular option. These systems can provide hot water on demand and save energy by not having to store large amounts of heated liquid. Tankless systems also typically require less maintenance than tank-style models, making them a great long-term investment for any homeowner.
- Insulate the tank:
Insulating the tank helps to reduce heat loss and can extend the life of your water heater. Most tank-style models come with insulation already installed, however, if yours does not it can be added easily as an aftermarket product.
- Monitor tank temperature:
Regularly checking the tank temperature helps to ensure that your water heater is operating properly. As a general rule, most tank-style units should be set between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit to provide optimal performance. If you notice that your tank temperature is consistently outside of this range, contact a professional plumber for assistance.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your home’s water heater stays running reliably and efficiently for years to come, all while avoiding costly repair fees. To learn more about maintaining your water heater or to schedule a routine maintenance appointment, contact Ohio Water Heaters at (614) 327-6971.
