4 Ways to Maintain Your Water Heater in Winter
Winter home maintenance can be cumbersome for homeowners in frigid parts of the country. Preventing your water heaters from breaking down is a fundamental step in making a home winter-proof, and identifying problems early leads to more comfort, coziness, and winter time fun.
Keep an Eye on Your Unit
It can be easy to forget about your water heater, particularly if it is in your garage or another hidden area of your home. Remember to perform a visual inspection on a regular basis to identify any wear and tear or other signs that repairs are imminent.
Also regularly check the TPR (temperature pressure relief) valve during the colder months. TPR valves serve to measure water tank levels and reject water if the temperature or pressure builds up to dangerous levels. The TPR valve should be checked at least every six months.
Schedule Regular Water Heater Cleanings
Flushing out your water heater is a vital part of maintenance. Sediment or hard water minerals can settle in the tank and cause future problems, but cleaning your water heater should be left to the professionals. We can perform preventive maintenance to clean out the various parts of your water heater and alleviate pressure buildup, corrosion, or damage. The frequency of your water heater cleanings or other maintenance will depend on the age of your unit, mineral levels in your water, and other factors.
Insulate Your Water Heater
Energy.Gov reports that a homeowner can save seven to sixteen percent in heating costs if a water heater is properly insulated. The following items can be used to insulate your unit:
- Insulation blanket
- Gloves and masks
- Electrical tape
The blanket must be tightly formed around the pipes and thermostat to prevent heat from escaping. Make sure to turn the water heater off while installing the blankets, so accidents do not occur.
Call a Professional for Repairs
We understand the temptation to repair your own water heater, but one wrong move could result in further damage, burns, or other problems. Cole Plumbing uses the industry’s latest technology paired with years of experience to deliver safe, efficient water heater repairs.
Proactive water heater maintenance is important to your comfort and safety once the temperatures begin to drop. Reach out to Cole Plumbing today to schedule your water heater maintenance.
