The standard water heaters have about 8 to 12 years of productive life. Once they cross the 10-year mark, they start developing signs of deterioration. The good news is there are some things you can do to keep your unit in tip-top shape and avoid costly water heater repair in Ann Arbor, MI. The experts at Dynamic Drains share some handy tips that can help you avoid untimely water heater failure.
Flush It Once a Year
If you have a tank-style water heater, ensure you drain and flush it annually. This will help reduce the buildup of mineral sediments that can speed up wear and tear and corrosion that prompts untimely water heater replacement.
Inspect Your Unit Regularly
Most homeowners tend to neglect their water heater until something goes awry. Every so often, watch out for any issue, including seemingly minor problems like strange noises, rust, and high energy bills. If you find yourself regularly scheduling repairs for your aging unit, consider installing a tankless water heater.
Check the Anode Rod
Tank-style units come equipped with sacrificial anode rods that protect them against rust and corrosion. This anode rod corrodes over time and stops functioning as expected. As a rule of thumb, you should change this rod every three to five years to avoid untimely water heater failure.
Adjust the Temperature
Setting your water heater installation at the ideal temperature helps promote energy efficiency, improve comfort, reduce water utility costs, and prevent bacteria growth while avoiding the risk of getting scalded. Most units are set at 140 degrees by default, but experts recommend setting the temperature at 120 degrees.
Dynamic Drains offers a full suite of water heater services, from installation to repair to maintenance, to help you get the most out of your unit. Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment.