Your DIY Guide to Water Heater Maintenance
Hey there, Boulder County homeowners! 👋
Your water heater is one of those unsung household heroes that you probably don't think about too often—until, of course, you're greeted by an icy splash in the shower. But don't worry, we've got your back. Let's roll up our sleeves and dive into some straightforward maintenance tips that you can handle yourself. No technical jargon, no unnecessary upsells, just honest advice.
1. Flushing Your Water Heater: The Why and How
Why flush your water heater? Simply put, sediment buildup can reduce efficiency and damage your system. So, let's get to it.
Step 1: Turn off your water heater. If you've got a gas model, make sure to also turn off the gas at the source.
Step 2: Attach a garden hose to the drain outlet near the bottom of the unit. Position the other end near a drain or in a bucket.
Step 3: Open the spigot and let the water flow until it's clear. It usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Hey, now your water heater is clean!
Pro Tip: Make this a twice-yearly ritual. Trust us, it's worth it.
2. Mastering Water Temperature Adjustments
Tired of lukewarm showers or scalding faucets? Adjusting the temperature can be a breeze.
Gas Water Heater: Look for the thermostat on the tank and make the adjustment. Easy as pie!
Electric Water Heater: Switch off the power at the breaker, expose the thermostat, and use a screwdriver to adjust the temperature in 10-degree increments. Close the panel up when you’re done and check on the water temperature after an hour or so. Not hot enough? Just rinse and repeat the above.
3. Access Panel Know-How
If you've got a gas water heater, the access panel can be your window into understanding if everything is in tip-top shape.
Lift off the Access Panel at the bottom of the tank.
Remove the heat shield and check for a flame.
No flame? Turn off the gas supply valve.
Give a little blow of air into the opening before you attempt to relight the pilot.
4. Reigniting the Spark: Pilot Light Magic
If your pilot light is out, don't fret.
Step 1: Turn the knob at the top of the control box to "Pilot."
Step 2: Use the pilot light button to relight the unit. Hold the reset button for about a minute. If there isn’t a push-button light, hold a barbeque lighter to the pilot access opening.
Step 3: Press and hold down the reset button on the control box for 60 seconds after the pilot ignites, then turn the control knob to “On”.
5. Anatomy of a Water Heater
A little confused on what is what? You’re not alone! Hopefully this helps a little:
Anatomy of a Water Heater
Anti Corrosion Anode: Prevents corrosion.
Burner: Heats the cold water when the pilot light is lit.
Cold Water Valve: Keeps cold water out of your water heater.
Dip Tube: Inserts cold water to be heated.
Draft Diverter: Collects exhaust gasses, then vents them out to the exterior.
Drain Valve: Drains the water heater water.
Elements: Elements that heat the water in the heater.
Flue: Expels a water heater's exhaust gasses and other byproducts outside.
Gas Supply Shut Off: Turns off gas on a gas water heater.
Hot Water Outlet: This drains hot water if there is too much pressure in the water heater.
Insulation: Prevents heat from escaping your water heater (saves you money!).
Overflow Pipe: If the water inside the tank gets too hot, this pipe releases some hot water to relieve pressure.
Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve (T&P Valve): Lowers the temperature and pressure of the heater by discharging water.
Thermocouple: Part of the pilot light assembly and connects to the gas control valve outside the heater.
Thermostat/Control Valve: Controls the water heater's temperature.
6. Other Quick Tips for Maintenance
Flush Your Water Heater: Do this a couple times per year or maybe even more if you have hard water.
Check the Anode Rod: This part prevents your tank from rusting. A quick inspection can extend your unit's life.
Look Out for Leaks: A leak might be as simple as tightening a valve.
Insulate: If you have an older water heater, insulate the pipes and heater.
Temperature and Pressure Valve: Check this annually. It helps keep your system safe.
Final Thoughts: Routine maintenance can save you time, money, and those dreaded cold showers. But if you ever find yourself in hot water (figuratively, of course) and DIY isn't cutting it, remember, we're just a click away.
We hope you find these tips helpful. Don’t hesitate to drop us a line or schedule a visit if we can help!
Here's to hot showers and happy homes!
