Why Is Water Heater Maintenance So Important?

Andrew Kyle • Nov 14, 2022

Having a nearly unlimited supply of hot water in your home is perhaps one of the most underappreciated luxuries that we enjoy. You can wash your dishes in hot water to elevate the cleaning power and enjoy a hot shower almost any time you want. When you run out of hot water, your water heater tank fills back up and begins heating a fresh supply of water for when you need it again. 

So how can you take care of your water heater and ensure that it continues to heat water to your expectations? Scheduling water heater maintenance may not be on your to-do list, but it should be. When you take care of your water heater it can take care of you for much longer and with greater efficiency. If you’re ready to schedule  water heater services , give us a call to schedule an appointment today. 

Annual Water Heater Maintenance

There are a couple of major concerns that you face with your water heater if you skip regular maintenance. When you invest in regular maintenance, you can save on monthly energy costs and extend the life of your water heater so that it lasts for years longer than the average. 

Mineral Buildup in a Water Heater

The first concern is a mineral buildup in the bottom of the water storage tank. If you have hard water, it is higher in minerals like calcium and magnesium. You don’t necessarily see or taste these particles when you drink the water, but they’re still present. 

Over time, these minerals create a barrier between the bottom of your water heater and the water it is storing. The minerals can block heating elements from effectively heating water for your home, resulting in a lower water temperature than you desire. Your water heater may also try to work harder in an attempt to heat your water better. This can increase your energy bills and cost you extra each month on your energy bill. Our team can scrape out the mineral buildup from the bottom of your tank annually so your water heater maintains its efficiency year after year. 

Water Heater Anode Rod

The other major concern is the anode rod. All water heaters have an anode rod inside the tank that protects your water heater from rust by slowly dissolving over time. But the rod dissolves completely within three to five years, so it needs to be replaced eventually. You can’t predict when it will completely dissolve, but a professional from our team can inspect your unit and offer a good estimation.

If you don’t replace the anode rod after it dissolves, your water heater is at risk of developing rust and wearing down faster. This isn’t just bad for your water heater. Rust can also affect your water quality. You may have lower water pressure and additional contaminants in your hot water. 

Contact Doug Turner Plumbing Co. today to  schedule an appointment  with our professionals. Services you can depend on!

Share by: