You can keep your water heater in good shape by following a few water heater maintenance tips that professional Corona del Mar plumbers stand by. Although not all water heater repair is avoidable, with proper care you can extend the longevity of the appliance and prevent numerous service calls.

Keep the Area Clear around the Water Heater

Don’t crowd your water heater. Give it space to breathe and make it easier to gain access to the unit should it need to be services. Water heaters that are crowded or shoved into small spaces can’t get enough oxygen. This is important for gas-powered units because they need oxygen to burn well. Units that don’t get the proper oxygen may develop dangerous carbon monoxide leaks. Storing items too close to the water heater can also be a fire hazard.

Drain the Water Heater

Water heaters need to be drained at least once a year. Most homeowners can perform this maintenance task without calling a licensed plumber. You simply need a 5-gallon bucket and a garden hose. Drain a few gallons by opening the drain valve.

Professional Water Heater Flushing

Sometimes you may need to have the water heater flushed. This is recommended if you notice a lot of debris when you drain the heater. Draining the tank completely should get rid of the sediment. Again, most homeowners can do this without professional assistance, but if you’re uneasy about messing with your water heater, call a plumber for professional water heater maintenance service.

Schedule an Annual Water Heater Inspection

Residential water heaters are not an inexpensive purchase. You want to keep your water heater running well as long as possible. At Witness Plumbing & Drain Service, we know the value in annual water heater inspection. During the inspection, our plumbers will inspect the unit for signs of leakage, rusting, soot formation, and other problems that could indicate a problem.

For a complete list of hot water heater maintenance tips, call us today to schedule an appointment to speak with a licensed and insured plumber near you!