Your Guide to Water Heater Maintenance This Fall
There are several ways homeowners in Fort Worth, Texas can help extend the life of their water heater and ensure its functioning throughout the fall and winter. Applying these key pointers can help you prolong your heater’s lifespan, reduce your energy bills, and decrease the risk of water damage resulting due to leakage.
Know Where Your Water Heater Is
Knowing where your water heater is located in your home and how to access it may seem obvious, but water heaters are often in spaces that are difficult to access, such as a basement or attic. Make sure you know where and how to access it before it’s too late.
Know What Kind of Water Heater You Own
Homeowners should be aware of whether they own an electric, propane, natural gas, or tankless water heater. While you’re at it, document the heater’s model number and serial number so you have the information on hand in case you need to schedule repairs or services.
Know How To Switch off the Water
Knowing how to switch off the water and the energy source of the water heater is a key component of preventing a serious problem. If you smell gas or notice a leak in your water heater, you’ll want to know how to cut it off at its source before any critical damage is done. There should be a disconnect switch or a gas valve near the water heater that you can use to disconnect it in the event of an emergency.
Clear The Space Surrounding Your Hot Water Heater
There are many reasons why keeping the area surrounding your water heater free is important, such as:
- Placing items or materials too close to the water heater creates a fire hazard.
- If your unit operates in gas, it requires a decent amount of oxygen to work properly. If a water heater is crowded and isn’t able to access enough oxygen, the system may not operate as effectively. This may also result in damage to the burner, or cause carbon monoxide leaks.
- If your water heater begins to leak, you are more likely to notice it before it results in severe water damage if the unit isn’t surrounded by clutter.
If you need further help with your water heater, call on the experts at ClearWater Plumbers. We can help with regular maintenance or a replacement.