3 Important Water Heater Maintenance Tips

November 21st, 2019 Posted in Water Heaters
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When was the last time you performed maintenance or service on your water heater? Many people never perform the needed maintenance and may be at risk of a water heater breakdown. While water heaters do not need much service, an annual tune-up can help prevent problems and extend the life of your appliance. Here are three water heater maintenance tips that can help minimize the risk of leaks and premature failure.

  1. Check the pressure release valve. The pressure release valve on water heater tanks is vital to maintaining the correct pressure. When the temperature or pressure become too high inside the tank, the valve releases water. This should be checked to ensure it is working at least once a year and replaced if necessary to avoid pressure build-up that can cause tank leaks or explosions.
  2. Drain the tank. The tank of a water heater can fill with mineral sediment that can cause damage to the inside of the tank. Draining the tank once a year can rid the tank of these minerals, helping your water heater last longer and run more efficiently.
  3. Replace the anode rod. Water heaters have an anode rod that attract minerals to reduce rust and corrosion of the tank. These rods are meant to rust and corrode, needing to be replaced every few years to continue protecting the tank.

Some homeowners choose to perform water heater maintenance on their own, while others call their local plumber. Either way, performing maintenance can help increase the lifespan of water heaters and prevent damaging leaks. If your water heater does need repair, call your local plumber for assistance.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing, Inc.
106-M Oakgrove Road
Sterling, VA 20166
(703) 435-4441

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Will Lowering Hot Water Temperature Save on Energy?

October 16th, 2019 Posted in Water Heaters
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Your hot water heater can contribute a sizable amount to your energy bills each month. Tank water heaters keep dozens of gallons of water hot and ready for use, but this comes at a price. One way to reduce the energy used by your water heater is to lower the temperature setting. However, it is not the only way to lower your hot water bill. Here are some tips for reducing the cost of hot water in your home.

Reset the Water Temperature

You can set the water temperature on tank water heaters, which can reduce energy use. An efficient setting is 120 degrees. This is hot enough to kill bacteria yet takes less energy to maintain.

Use Less Hot Water

Simply using less hot water is a good way to reduce your energy costs. Shortening showers, using cold water for laundry and not running hot water down the drain can all help reduce the amount of hot water used and decrease energy bills.

Use Insulation

An insulating blanket over a hot water tank can help reduce heat loss. This can be helpful when trying to conserve energy.

Hot Water Heater Maintenance

Like most appliances, hot water heaters work more efficiently when they are maintained. Flushing once a year and replacing components when needed can help reduce energy use. Keep in mind that water heaters that are 10+ years old are most likely less efficient than newer models. Replacement can help with lowering energy bills.

By keeping the water temperature setting lower and following these tips, you can see a difference on your hot water energy costs. Talk to your local plumber about scheduling routine water heater maintenance or explore replacing your old heater with a new, efficient model.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

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Does Your Water Heater Need Maintenance?

August 23rd, 2019 Posted in Water Heaters
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Has your water heater tank been flushed in the last year? Do you know if your anode rod needs to be replaced? Tank water heaters need routine maintenance to prevent premature wear and tear on components. If you are not sure when your water heater received preventive maintenance or if it has never been serviced, it is time to schedule a flush and inspection.

Why Flush a Water Heater?

Tank water heaters hold water heated to around 120 degrees 24/7, 365-days a year. The minerals in the water can collect inside the tank, causing corrosion. Flushing the tank once a year can allow some of these minerals to be released, helping lower corrosion in the tank. This is simple to do – most homeowners can flush their heater as a DIY task – but it can also be completed with routine maintenance.

Inspection of Components

If you schedule routine maintenance through your local plumber, they can flush your tank and do a complete inspection. This will include checking the anode rod to see it needs replacement. It will also include inspecting the pressure release valve – this is a common component that can fail and cause a major leak that can flood your home with hot water from your tank. Annual inspections can identify components that need replacement, reducing the chance of a water heater tank leak or other emergency repairs.

Routine maintenance can help extend the life of your water heater. With regular service, a tank water heater can last well over 10 years, even close to 20 years in some cases. Make sure to schedule your next water heater service if it has been more than a year since your unit has been flushed or inspected.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(404) 973-2471

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3 Ways to Make Your Water Heater Last

February 21st, 2019 Posted in Water Heaters
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Replacing a tank water heater can be expensive, but if you maintain your heater, it can last much longer. With good maintenance, many tank water heaters can last 15 years or longer. However, homeowners often forget about water heater maintenance, which can shave years off the lifespan of their appliance.

Water heaters wear out from the constant heating and storage of water. This puts stress on the metal tank and the heating elements, especially due to the minerals that are released from the water. There are simple ways to reduce this stress and prolong the life of your water heater, including these three tips:

  1. Keep 120-degree temperature. You want your water to be hot enough to kill bacteria, but not overly hot which can put extra stress on the tank and run up your energy bills. Keep your temperature at 120-degrees, a safe level for your needs.
  2. Drain the tank annually. Releasing the minerals and sediment in the tank can help reduce corrosion and help keep the heating elements efficient. You can do this yourself or your local plumber can do this as part of an annual service.
  3. Replace sacrificial anode rod. There are sacrificial anode rods in tank water heaters. These are meant to attract minerals to reduce corrosion occurring in the tank but will slowly disintegrate as they do their job and need replacement.

By doing these three maintenance items, along with repairs as needed, you can get more years of life from your tank water heater. Make it easy by scheduling annual service for your water heater with a local plumber. They can drain your tank and check the anode rods and other parts, replacing components as needed to keep your water heater maintained.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

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Should You Drain and Flush a Water Heater Yourself?

August 16th, 2018 Posted in Water Heaters
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Your water heater needs regular maintenance to keep it working great and to extend the time before replacement. Like most appliances, it can benefit from regular service to reduce wear and tear on the mechanisms. One maintenance service that should be done annually is a drain and flush of the tank. However, is this a DIY job or should you hire a plumber?

Draining and flushing your water heater tank is important to limit corrosion inside the tank. Minerals can collect in the tank and cause rust and corrosion. This can lead to leaks in the tank and a premature replacement of the water heater, which can cost thousands of dollars. Draining and flushing can remove these minerals and extend the life of your water heater.

You can drain and flush a water heater on your own, but it does take some know-how. There are several hundred gallons of water that must be carefully removed; a wrong move could cause water to flood your home, putting you at risk for water or mold damage. If you decide to attempt this procedure, make sure you research it carefully to ensure you do not cause more harm than good.

Another option is to schedule a tune-up or service for your water heater with a local plumber. Not only can they drain and flush the tank, they can inspect the other components on your water heater. There are many components that can need replacement over the years; proactive replacement can prevent water heater malfunctions and emergency repairs while extending the life of your appliance. If it has been more than a year since your water heater tank has been flushed, call your local plumber and schedule a service.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing, Inc.
106-M Oakgrove Road
Sterling, VA 20166
(703) 435-4441

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Why You Should Invest in a Tankless Water Heater

January 5th, 2018 Posted in Water Heaters
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Is your tank water heater 10-15 years old or older? It is time to start thinking about replacement. Once a water heater hits the 15-year mark, repairing it if it breaks down may only delay the inevitable. While tank water heaters are less expensive to purchase than tankless models, you may want to consider this investment. In the long run, a tankless water heater may save you money and offer more convenience than choosing to stick with a tank model.

Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

Do you ever run out of hot water in your home? Does your water heater take up space that could be better utilized? These are some of the issues that a tankless water heater can solve. Here are some of the advantage of switching to a tankless model when it comes time to replace your water heater.

  • Endless hot water. With a tankless water heater, you get on-demand hot water. The supply will never run out, even if everyone in the family takes a shower in morning.
  • Less space. Tankless means you will no longer need to fill part of your utility room or a closet with a water heater. Tankless models can be hung on a wall, even put outside.
  • Energy efficiency. There is a substantial savings on your energy when you switch to on-demand hot water. You no longer need to keep hundreds of gallons of water hot 24/7, saving you on your energy bills.
  • Damage to your home. There is always a risk that a tank water heater can spring a leak, causing water damage to your home. A leak when you are not home could cost you thousands in repairs and restoration.

Save on energy bills and enjoy the convenience of a tankless water heater when it comes time to replace your old tank. Talk to your local plumber about the options available in tankless water heaters for your home.

Posted on behalf of:
Seagraves Plumbing Sewer & Septic
4980 Plant Atkinson Rd SE
Smyrna, GA 30080
(494) 792-2221

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3 Signs Your Water Heater is Failing

December 1st, 2017 Posted in Water Heaters
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Water heaters often seem to fail without warning. One day, you jump in the shower and there is no hot water. However, there are usually warning signs that a water heater is failing if you know what to expect. Water heaters tend to last about ten years, but any time after eight years you should be on the lookout for issues.  Here are three signs your water heater may be coming to the end of its lifespan, so you can proactively replace it before it fails.

  1. Strange noises. Is your water heater making more noise than before? Banging, gurgling or popping noises are usually due to sediment buildup. Draining your tank can help, but too much sediment over time will lead to failure.
  2. Leaks. A major tank leak is often the reason a water heater is replaced. However, small leaks can occur that should be a warning that a major leak or failure is around the corner. Watch for moisture around the tank or small puddles.
  3. Hot water issues. Does it seem to take longer to get hot water or the temperature doesn’t seem to be as warm as before? Does your hot water have a tinge of color to it? Changes in your hot water temperature or color can be a sign there is a problem with your water heater.

It is better to replace your water heater on your schedule than wait for the tank to spring a leak or to wake up to a cold shower. Keep an eye and ear open for issues with your water heater once it is several years old. When it begins having problems, call your local plumber and have it proactively replaced before it fails.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(404) 973-2471

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Is It Time to Replace Your Water Heater?

October 8th, 2017 Posted in Water Heaters
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Water heaters can last over a decade, some lasting twenty years or more with good maintenance. It is easy to neglect your water heater and forget that these appliances do need replacement. If you have had your water heater for ten years or more, it is time to start considering replacing your unit before you wake up one morning to a cold shower. Some early signs that your water heater is reaching the end of its life can include:

  • Shorter periods of hot water
  • Water not getting as hot
  • Increased noise from the unit
  • Leaking

While these can also be signs that your water heater needs repair, if it is over ten years old, repairing may be a waste of money. Putting a bandage on an appliance that has already reached the average lifespan may only keep it running for a few more months. Instead, these indications are a sign that it is time to start considering investing in a new water heater.

There are many options when it comes to replacing your water heater. Tank water heaters come in electric and gas models, with various sizes. If running out of hot water has always been a problem, considering getting a larger tank or opting for a tankless model. Tankless or on-demand water heaters are compact, without a tank, and heat water as you need it. This ensures you always have hot water and these models can save quite a bit on your energy bills.

If your water heater is nearing the end of its life, talk to your local plumber about replacement. Ask about upgrading to a tankless model for your home or other options before your old unit finally quits.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(404) 973-2471

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Tankless Water Heaters: Are They a Better Option for Your Family?

January 8th, 2017 Posted in Water Heaters
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If your water heater is several years old, you may be considering investigating replacement. Most tank models can last at least ten years, sometimes longer if they are maintained. However, they can also be costing you more in utilities if they are more than a decade old. You may have heard of the advantages of tankless water heaters, but is this option the best one for your family? While most homes can benefit from switching to a tankless version, here are some factors to keep in mind.

Initial Cost

In many cases, tankless water heaters are more expensive than their bulky predecessors. However, they can significantly reduce your energy bills. Water is only heated when it is needed, cutting the cost of heating water by half or more. If you plan on moving soon, you may not make up the cost difference, so you may want to consider going with a cheaper, tank model.

Space

One of the biggest benefits besides energy reduction is saving space. Tankless models are much smaller and can even be located outdoors in some areas of the country.

Consistent Hot Water

While tankless water heaters offer the benefit of never running out of hot water, if you have a large family, there still could be issues. Running hot water in several places at the same time can be difficult; you won’t run out of hot water but it still needs to heat the water to go to multiple places.

All in all, tankless water heaters are often a better investment for those looking to buy a new model. Talk to your local plumber to determine if it is the right choice for your family or home.

Posted on behalf of:
Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.
2120 McDaniels Bridge Rd SW
Lilburn, GA 30047
(770) 736-8283

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Is a New Water Heater in Your Future?

June 27th, 2016 Posted in Water Heaters
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Have you been considering replacing your water heater? Chances are, if it is still working, it is the last thing on your mind. Most homeowners are not concerned with their water heaters age or performance; that is, until they come home to a flooded home or step into a cold shower. Water heaters tend to last close to ten years, sometimes less, sometimes more. If your water heater is close to ten years old, you should be considering replacing it before it goes out.

There are a few good reasons to be proactive when it comes to replacing your water heater. One reason is efficiency. Many of the older models are extremely inefficient when it comes to energy use. You may be spending much more on your water heating costs than necessary. A new water heater can save you money, paying for itself in energy savings over time.

Another good reason to replace an old tank water heater is the possibility of leaks. It is common for these old tanks to rust and spring leaks. In a matter of a few hours or less, your home could be flooded with hundreds of gallons of water. Then, you will not only need to replace your water heater, you will need to repair water damage to your home and could possibly be facing mold issues.

One of the best options for new water heaters is a new tankless model. These new water heaters can save you up to 50% off your water heating bill, take very little space and eliminate the worry of a tank leak. Call your local plumber to find out more about the benefits of proactively replacing your old tank with a new tankless water heater.

Posted on behalf of:
Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.
2120 McDaniels Bridge Rd SW
Lilburn, GA 30047
(770) 736-8283

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