Warm water is something that all of us utilize year-round. Because of this, your water heater is one of the most important parts of your home; think hot showers after a long day, fresh laundry, clean dishes, and so much more. Of course, if your water heater breaks down, Cahill Plumbing is only a phone call away, however, there are at-home steps that you can take to make sure that your water heater is working as it should be.

Monitor the Temperature

The thermostat of your water heater should be visible, and some manufacturers set the temperatures to a higher-than-necessary default setting. Too high temperatures can cause scalding, pipe corrosion and accelerated mineral buildup. Aim to keep the temperature around 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Drain the Tank

It’s recommended to drain the tank 2-3 times per year to help flush out the water heater and replace the water. You should flush out about one-fourth of the tank, and you can do so by turning off the cold water supply and hooking up a garden hose to the drain valve. Monitor the water until the water looks clear. This is a simple tip to help maintain the efficiency of the heater.

Test the Pressure Relief Valve

Warning: this test releases scalding hot water! Homeowners should be aware of this before completing this test. The pressure relief valve should easily release a burst of hot water after you raise the test lever. Testing this on a regular occasion can help clear unwanted debris. In the case that you notice the valve isn’t letting out a burst of hot water, it’s time to call our plumbers to set up a service call.

A malfunctioning water heater will cause you and your family problems and discomfort. In the case that you need professional assistance, our team at Cahill Plumbing is happy to help.