Visitors During the Holiday: Keep Your Water Heater in Top Shape with These Tips

Posted By The Eco Plumbers 10 Dec. 2014
The holidays are a great time to host friends and family for extended stays. However, a fun gathering can quickly turn into an unenjoyable situation if the water heater is on the fritz. Being without hot water is hard at any point in the year, but even more so when cold weather arrives.

If a water heater is well maintained, it can have a lifespan of about 8-12 years. Here are some ways to make sure your water heater is in the best shape for company this year.

Do a TPR valve test. The TPR, or temperature-pressure-release valve, is usually located on the side or top of the water tank. Lift the tab to release a little bit of water and then let go. If you see water continue to come out of the valve, you’ll need to drain the tank and install a new valve.
Drain the tank. Drain all of the water in the tank and then stir up the sediment that has settled on the tank’s floor. Open the cold-water supply for a moment, drain it again, and repeat the process until you see clear water coming from the hose.
Save energy by keeping the tank temperature at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. By lowering 10 degrees, you will save roughly 5% on your energy bill.
Insulate the pipes and heater. Adding foam pipe insulation over the water pipes prevents condensation. Insulating the tank itself can improve efficiency by reducing heat loss during the colder months. Some newer water heater models are already insulated.
Having no hot water can be a key indicator that you need to replace a water heater. If you still have no hot water after performing these simple maintenance tips, you may need to consider investing in a new water heater. Other factors that might indicate you need a new water heater include:

Hot water with a metallic smell or taste.
Noises like loud cracks and pops from your heater.
Leaking water.
Before looking for a new water heater, contact the professionals at Eco Plumbers to come out and do a professional tune up. Our plumbers will evaluate your water heater and let you know if it’s time for an upgrade or repairs. We can also provide information about what you should look for when picking out a new water heater.

If you need to replace your water heater before company arrives, look for heaters that are more energy efficient. Check your old unit for information regarding what you should look for in a new heater. These features will give you an indication of energy efficiency when shopping.

Capacity. Common capacities for water heaters are 40-50 gallons.
Energy rating. A sticker on the unit should indicate the yearly cost of operation. An energy star rating may indicate better savings over time.
Recovery. This is the number of gallons your heater will heat in an hour.
Space. You will need a unit that fits in your available space.
The Eco Plumbers serves Columbus, Powell, Grove City, Westerville, Gahanna and the surrounding areas.

Categories: Plumbing Tips, Seasonal Tips, Water Heater