When was the last time you thought about your water heater? In all likelihood it was when you ran out of hot water. Fortunately, the lack of hot water only lasted for a few minutes or hours. Could you run out of hot water for a longer period of time? You sure can! If your water heater fails you will be without hot water for several days while waiting for a replacement. Avoid this hassle and give your heater a little tender loving care. Fortunately, it isn't hard to do.
The most important thing to do is drain your hot water tank. Over time, sediment from the water settles on the bottom of the tank. This can cause the tank to rust and to slowly be corroded away until it ruptures. Plus, the extra layer of gunk causes the heater to work harder and less efficiently which increases your gas or electric bill. By draining the tank you remove the gunk and keep the unit working in tip-top condition.
To drain your heater you will need a hose and about an hour or two.
The first step is to turn off the heat source. With an electric heater, you will need to flip the breaker switch to "off". With a gas heater turn the thermostat knob to the pilot setting.
Next, turn off the cold water supply to your tank. The line is typically labeled on the water heater and the shut off is located just above the tank.
Open a hot water faucet somewhere in the home. This will prevent a vacuum from forming in the tank as the water drains.
The tank's drain will be located at the bottom and will have a threaded outlet as well. Attach the hose to the tank and route the other end of the hose to a safe surface for receiving many gallons of hot water. Open the drain valve and watch the water flow! It will be very dirty and brown to start but eventually it will run more clear. Turn on the cold water once the tank is empty to flush out the final bits of sediment. Allow water to flow until it comes out clear. Close the drain valve and the faucet on the sink you opened up.
Allow the tank to fill completely and then turn on the electricity or gas again.
That's it! Very straight forward and simple stuff. Just a few minutes of your time and you extend the life of your water heater. Simply repeat every year and your water heater will thank you!
For more information please visit http://www.ableonsite.com the water heater installation specialists and hvac servicing.
Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Able Onsite Heating and Cooling Specialist.
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