Water Heater Maintenance

Gas water heater maintenance.

Water heater maintenance.

Both electric water heaters and gas water heaters can be maintained in similar ways. A water heater typically lasts between 8 and 12 years but only if it is maintained properly. This rusty wire is all that remains of what was once a inch anode rod made of aluminum or magnesium. Steps on how to maintain a hot water heater 1.

Check the pressure valve. If the valve doesn t operate correctly the tank can overpressurize and explode. Without the rod hot water rapidly corrodes the inside of the tank shortening its life. Both gas and electric water heaters have a safety device called a temperature and pressure relief valve or t p valve for short.

In the event the tank overpressurizes the relief valve opens and releases the pressure. Both types of water heaters should be flushed regularly to prevent a build up of rust and corrosion. A simple three step annual maintenance plan will extend the life of the water heater. Just follow these hot water heater maintenance tips to make your hot water less expensive.

So show your water heater some love by following a routine maintenance schedule that will keep it running for its 15 year expected lifetime and perhaps beyond. These come with the instructions and are often overlooked as water is pumped into your water.