Your hot water tank, or water heater, is essential to everyday modern life, providing hot water for dishes, showers, laundry, and more. If you’ve ever had to take an ice-cold shower, you know how important hot water can be! Most homeowners only give their water heater a second thought once there’s an issue.
Unfortunately, your hot water tank won’t last forever. Most water heaters last anywhere between 8 to 12 years. However, a little preventive maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your hot water tank.
Here are a few tips you can use to extend the life of your hot water tank:
1. Flush the Tank Regularly
Over time, sediment and other minerals can build up in the bottom of your hot water tank and cause internal corrosion, reducing the efficiency of your unit. This can lead to costly repairs and shorten the lifespan of the tank. You should aim to drain your hot water tank once a year, more if you have hard water in your home.
To drain your water heater, follow these steps:
- Shut off the water supply to your water heater. (Turn the shutoff valve at the top of the unit.)
- Turn off the power to the water heater.
- Give the water time to cool off. The water in your unit is extremely hot. To avoid injury, it’s recommended to let your water heater sit overnight or at least a few hours before draining.
- Attach a hose to the drain valve. Direct a garden hose from your water heater’s drain valve to an outdoor drainage area.
- Turn on a hot faucet nearest your water heater, preferably on the floor above. This alleviates pressure in the system and allows the tank to drain quickly.
- Open the drain valve to let the water out. Use caution because the water might be hot! It might take a while for the tank to drain.
- Flush the tank with fresh water. When the drain valve is still open, briefly turn on the cold water supply to the tank. This will help stir up and eliminate any remaining sediment at the bottom of the tank. Repeat this process until the water runs clear.
- Close the drain valve and remove the hose.
- Refill the tank. Turn the water supply back on to start refilling the tank. Once the tank is full, turn the power or gas supply back on to the water heater. Remember to turn off the tap you opened earlier. Be sure to check the valve opening to ensure no water leaks.
The process for draining different types of water heaters can vary slightly, so make sure you follow all manufacturer’s directions.
2. Install a Water Softener
Hard water means that your water has a high mineral concentration – mainly calcium and magnesium. Mineral buildup in your hot water tank can cause your system to wear down over time. If you live in a neighborhood with hard water, we recommend installing a water softener or filtration system. Water softeners make it easier for your water heater to function more efficiently and last longer.
3. Consider an Expansion Tank
Water expands when heated, causing internal pressure when expanded water has nowhere to go. Your water heater could burst or crack if the pressure gets too high. An expansion tank is a safety device that attaches to your water heater, allowing your tank to expand as it heats up and contract as it cools down. These pressure variations in your water tank can degrade it over time. An expansion tank reduces pressure on the main tank, giving it a longer lifespan.
4. Check the Anode Rod
The anode rod is a metal inserted in a water heater to prevent the tank from rusting. However, rust can begin spreading to the tank once the rod is corroded. The anode rod should be regularly examined and replaced when necessary.
5. Test the Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve is an important safety feature of your hot water tank. It automatically opens and releases water if the pressure inside your water heater gets too high. If the valve is damaged or not working properly, it could cause the tank to crack or rupture. You can test the pressure relief valve yourself, but many homeowners prefer to call a professional.
It must be replaced if the valve is damaged or not working properly. This is a potentially dangerous repair, so if you don’t have the knowledge or skills to replace a pressure relief valve yourself, always hire a professional plumber.
6. Perform Maintenance Checks
Regularly inspect your water heater for cracks or leaks. Ensure the area around your hot water tank is clear and your thermostat is set to the right temperature. You can do a bit of basic maintenance yourself or call a professional for regular check-ups.
Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your hot water tank. Whether it’s maintenance, repairs, or replacement, contact us at Lynn’s Winnipeg for all your hot water needs!
Greetings, I’m Dallas. I’m a small business owner living in Winnipeg, MB, Canada and operate Lynn’s HVAC Winnipeg: Heating Cooling Sewer & Drain.
Lynn’s HVAC Winnipeg plumbing, heating, cooling is a small family owned and operated business since 1980. We pride ourselves on quality work completed by licensed technicians. We believe our outstanding customer service sets us apart from other Winnipeg residential plumbing, heating and cooling companies. Experience the difference and be a part of the Lynn’s family! “We provide comfort at your door!”
Services we provide:
– HVAC repair, – AC repair & install, – Furnace repair & install, – Hot water tanks, – Water heaters, – Clogged drains & sewage, – Plumbing
Areas we serve:
Winnipeg, Oakbank, Beausejour, La Salle, Ile Des Chênes, Stonewall, Niverville, Gimli, Ste. Francois Xavier, Landmark, Selkirk, Steinbach, Stony Mountain, Winnipeg Beach, Lorette & More!
