Spring cleaning is a yearly tradition where you tidy up your homes and eliminate clutter accumulated over the winter. However, your water heater is one important item that often needs to be noticed on the spring cleaning checklist. Many homeowners take their water heaters for granted, assuming they will work flawlessly for years without maintenance. However, maintaining your water heater can lead to many problems, including reduced efficiency, increased energy costs, and even dangerous accidents. Here are some top reasons your water heater should be on your spring cleaning checklist.
Why You Should Include Your Water Heater in Spring Cleaning
Improve Efficiency
Over time, sediment can build up in your water heater’s tank, reducing its efficiency. As sediment accumulates, it reduces the tank’s water volume, causing the unit to work harder to produce hot water. This extra effort can lead to increased energy consumption and, consequently, higher utility bills. Spring cleaning provides an excellent opportunity to flush out sediment and improve your water heater’s efficiency. Flushing the tank removes the buildup and improves the unit’s ability to heat water quickly and efficiently.
Increase Lifespan
Regular maintenance can also help to extend the lifespan of your water heater. A water heater that needs to be well-maintained will likely develop problems that can lead to costly repairs or even replacement. Regular cleaning and maintenance, including flushing the tank, checking the anode rod, and inspecting the heating elements, can help keep your water heater running smoothly for many years.
Avoid Dangerous Accidents
Neglecting your water heater can also lead to dangerous accidents. For example, the tank could explode if the pressure and temperature relief valve fail. Alternatively, a gas-powered water heater not venting correctly could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Regular maintenance and inspection of your water heater can avoid these dangerous accidents. Also, regularly checking the temperature and pressure settings can help ensure the unit is operating correctly.
Improve Water Quality
As sediment accumulates in your water heater’s tank, it can also affect the quality of your hot water. The sediment can contain minerals, rust, and other debris, making your hot water taste and smell unpleasant. Spring cleaning your water heater can help improve the quality of your hot water and ensure it tastes and smells fresh. When cleaning your water heater, use a soft cloth and mild detergent.
Save Money
Finally, regular maintenance of your water heater can save you money. A well-maintained water heater is more energy efficient, which means you’ll save money on your utility bills. Additionally, regular maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs or replacements, saving you thousands of dollars in the long run. In case of any problems with your water heater, it is best to contact a professional plumbing technician immediately.
Schedule an Appointment
Your water heater should be on your spring cleaning checklist. Regular maintenance, including flushing the tank, checking the anode rod, and inspecting the heating elements, can help improve efficiency, increase lifespan, avoid dangerous accidents, improve water quality, and save money. Don’t neglect this important appliance; include it in your annual spring cleaning routine. Schedule an appointment with us at Freedom Flow for water heater maintenance services in Scranton, PA.