The Ultimate Guide to Water Heater Maintenance and When to Replace
Nothing worse on a cold morning than being greeted by cold water.
Just like any other appliance, your water heater requires proper routine maintenance to keep performing at its best, and it’s important to identify when it’s time to replace it with a new unit.
Knowing how to maintain a water heater can not only prevent unexpected cold surprises but also lower electricity bills and extend its lifespan.. Great combo!
Do you want to ensure your water heater keeps flowing with hot water all year round? Use the following steps as a guide.
Types of Water Heater Tanks
There are many types of water heater tanks available on the market right now, and each one comes with its own advantages. Let’s understand what are the types and which options you can choose according to your household requirements.
1. Storage Water Heater
Storage water tank is the traditional choice for many Southern Highlands Homeowners since it keeps the water heated and ready to use whenever you need it. They come in various sizes according to the different household needs, ranging from 20 to 80 gallons.
2. Heat Pump Water Heater
These water tanks are generally considered energy efficient as they do not generate heat directly into the water; instead, heat pump water heaters transfer heat from the surrounding area. Despite requiring higher initial costs during installation, they are considered to be a long-term investment since they serve for a longer period.
3. Tankless Water Heater
These are on-demand water heaters, more like only heating water when needed rather than storing it for a longer time. Tankless water heaters work on the system, which makes them ideal for smaller homes or for someone looking for a more efficient option, as they prevent standby heat loss from stored water.
4. Electric Water Heater
Electric coils heat the water in the tank in electric water heaters. They generally come in the affordable range initially, though they cost you a lot more to operate if electricity rates are high. There are both tank and tankless models of electric heaters that can be ordered, which allows you to choose what works best for your home.
5. Gas Hot Water System
These hot water systems use propane or natural gas as a fuel source, which can be quicker and more energy-efficient to heat. Gas hot water systems can be used in households with more hot water demands. Although they can cost you more initially, their operating cost is often lower in the areas where gas is affordable.
What Type of Maintenance Do They Need?
Regular maintenance is more than just a basic requirement for your water heaters, as it also helps prevent issues that could disrupt your daily lives.
Here are several steps of maintenance to keep your water heater in good condition:
1.Checking Temperature Settings
Water heaters mostly come with a default temperature setting, which is generally higher than the normal temperature. Checking the temperature setting and lowering it not only helps to save energy but also prevents accidental scalding. It ensures the water heater performs at high levels by maintaining reasonable wear on the system heater.
2. Inspecting the Anode Rod
The anode rod is one of the most important components of a water heater, and it helps prevent corrosion and rust. Made of aluminium and magnesium, it attracts corrosive particles in the water, protecting the tank lining. Anode rods should be inspected every 2–3 years; if they are corroded or less than 1/2 inch thick, they should be replaced.
3. Testing the Pressure Relief Valve
If the tank’s pressure becomes too high, the safety device known as the pressure relief valve activates to release the pressure. Lift the valve lever to allow some water to exit the discharge pipe to test it. It’s functioning properly if water flows freely. Think about replacing it if it’s leaking or stuck. Every year, the valve is tested to make sure it is in good operating order and to avoid potentially dangerous pressure buildup.
4. Insulating the Tank and Pipes
Insulating water heater pipes and tanks help reduce heat loss, which saves energy costs and improves efficiency. The following step is particularly important if your heater is installed in an unheated area, such as a garage. A budget-friendly way to reduce energy bills is to purchase insulation kits for tanks and pipes from hardware stores.
5. Regular Flushing to Prevent Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment and minerals accumulate at the bottom of your water heater tank, which reduces heating efficiency and can damage the layer of the tank. This is why flushing the tank once a year helps in removing the buildup.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Replacement
Sometimes, even after following the proper maintenance, a water heater needs to be replaced. Here are some signs that your water heater might be nearing the end of its life.
1. Is Your Water Heater Showing Its Age?
Water heaters last around 10-15 years, depending on the maintenance cycle and which type of water heater you are using. If your water heater is in this range, it might be working fine according to you, but it may be prone to breakdowns and less efficient. The older the water heater, the more likely it is to need repairs, leading to a higher overall cost.
2. Rusty Water or Corrosion
Discoloured or rusty water coming from your taps indicates corrosion inside the water heater tank. Also, when you start noticing the layer of rust around the exterior of your water tank, it signals that it is breaking down internally, too. So, if you see the corrosion, it’s time to replace your water heater, as replacement is the only choice because repairs are unlikely to cure the internal rust.
3. Strange Noises Coming from the Tank
Sediment buildups often cause your water heater to make strange sounds such as banging, rumbling, etc. This can also lead to overheating, which reduces the efficiency of the water heater. Flushing can help in these situations, but you might need to replace your water heater if the issues persist.
4. Inconsistent Hot Water or No Hot Water
If your water heater is not providing as much hot water as it did when the unit was new, this may indicate an issue that needs to be resolved. This issue can be repaired, but you should consider buying a new water heater when it happens frequently.
5. Leaks Around Water Heater
Water pouring or even the slightest leakage is the major red flag for your water heater, as leaks indicate a structural issue. This could lead to significant water damage and electrical shock if not addressed promptly. The best solution is to replace your water heater unit before a complete failure.
Getting a New Water Heater - What to Consider?
1. Type of Water Heater
Consider which type of water heater meets your needs and lifestyle. Every type has its advantages related to heat pump, electric, gas heaters, and storage. Other factors, such as energy efficiency, installation requirements, and upfront cost, are needed to find the best suit for you.
2. Right Size for Your Household Needs
This is one of the important points to consider as too big size might be the reason for energy wastage and too small won’t perfectly meet your household needs. For water heater tanks, the perfect size depends on the household members.
3. Installation and Space Requirements
Storage heaters take up more space than tankless heaters, which can be mounted on a wall. For safety, gas heaters must be properly vented, and each unit must be able to fit comfortably in its designated spot. To guarantee compatibility, carefully measure the space you have available and get help from plumbing professionals for the best installation and good performance afterwards.
4. Long-Term Investment & Initial Cost
These are both important factors to consider while purchasing a new water heater. Heat pumps and tankless water heaters are more expensive initially, but they save money over time by requiring fewer replacements and lower energy costs.
Need Help with Your Water Heater? Contact MPK Plumbing Today!
Whether you are considering getting help with repairs, routine maintenance, or the full replacement of your water heater, MPK Plumbing & Civil has you covered for all your needs.
We believe in building trust and creating a lasting relationship with our clients. Our team of certified and licensed plumbers are known for their best service with years of experience.
Don’t let plumbing issues ruin your day. Schedule a service call with one of our expert plumbers based in the Southern Highlands, Wollondilly Shire and surrounding areas.