Your water heater is an essential component of your home. More often than not, homeowners take their water heater for granted until it stops working, yet there are some simple steps anyone can take to increase their water heater efficiency and add years to its life.
Mister Sewer is a premier plumbing service that handles residential water heater installation, as well as a wide range of plumbing and sewer services. When you are experiencing issues with your water heater, contact the professional plumbers at Mister Sewer Plumbing & Drain Experts!
Here we will discuss some of the things you can do to improve the water heater in your home:
Temperature Pressure Release (TPR) Valve Inspection
The Temperature Pressure Release (TPR) valve is a safeguard against an unsafe pressure level inside the water heater. When the internal pressure gets too high, the TPR valve will open. Before performing any inspection, ensure that the power and water supply are cut off from the water heater. Next, lift the tab on the valve to let some of the water out of the unit. If the water continues to flow, drain the tank half-way and replace the TPR valve.
Evaluation of the Anode Rod
The anode rod in your water heater protects the tank from corrosion. Without a properly functioning anode rod, the lifespan of a water heater is dramatically reduced. To check the state of your water heater’s anode rod, you must first install a hose onto the tank’s drain cock and let out some of the water. Next, choose the correct socket size and begin unscrewing the rod by loosening the hex bolt normally found on the top of the water heater. If the rod is less than a half-inch thick or covered with calcium deposits, it is time for a new one. Replacements can be found easily and will add years of life to your water heater.
Tank Draining and Sediment Removal
Drain the water from the water heater by attaching a hose to the drain cock and placing it in a large bucket. Once drained, add water to the unit by reopening the cold water supply. This should stir up additional sediment at the bottom of the water heater. Continue to drain and refill the water heater until clear water is coming out of the hose attached to the drain cock. After the interior of the tank is completely clean, turn the power supply back to resume heating the water.
Temperature Adjustment
The temperature dial should be located on the side of your water heater. Once found, remove the cover to gain access to the dial. Using a flathead screwdriver, turn the dial to 120 degrees F. For every 10 degrees that you lower the temperature, expect to save up to 5% in yearly energy costs.
Pipe Insulation
Use ⅜ inch-thick pipe insulation around the pipes surrounding the water heater. By utilizing insulation around both the cold and hot water pipes in your home, you can prevent heat loss and stop summertime condensation on cold water supply pipes. You can also insulate additional water pipes throughout the house to further reduce inefficiencies saving power and money.
Water Heater Insulation
You can also insulate the water heater by using R-4.5 insulating foil-covered bubble wrap. Cut the insulation to accommodate piping, the temperature control, and the TPR valve. Wrap the sides of the unit with foil-covered bubble wrap making sure to seal cuts with foil tape. Note: Do NOT cover the top of an oil or gas water heater. You can further insulate an electrical water heater by adding additional insulation to the top of the unit, which can be secured to the sides using foil tape.
Partner with Residential Water Heater Experts Servicing the Pittsburgh, PA, Area
Mister Sewer Plumbing & Drain Experts is fast becoming the premier source of residential water heater installation and maintenance services. With our customer-driven approach to plumbing services, our company sets the standard for plumbing services in every community that we serve. For more information about residential water heater installation, contact us today!