One of the most overlooked appliances in your home is your water heater—until it breaks. Not only can a breakdown result in costly repairs, but also perhaps replacing your unit entirely.
The best way to ensure your water heater is working always at peak efficiency is to conduct routine maintenance. Traditional water heaters must be drained and flushed twice a year maximum since sediment can build up within the tank.
Once the sediment has been broken down due to weathering or erosion, it settles at the bottom of the water. This material can have an impact on the tank’s storage capacity, causing it to overheat.
If your water heater happens to break, the following are proper steps to take to mitigate the damage:
- Shut off power – If you have a gas water heater, find the dial on the top of the thermostat. If you have an electric water heater, simply turn off the circuit breaker.
- Shut off water – Find the water valve and turn it clockwise until it stops.
- Drain tank – The drain valve should be located at the bottom of the tank. Attach a hose to it and run the other to an area to drain dirty water. You may have to use a screwdriver to open the drain valve.
- Open pressure relief valve – Turn on the valve to prevent a vacuum from forming during drainage. Remember, the water may be extremely hot.
- Rinse water heater using cold water – When you completely drain your water heater, rinse it with cold water to flush out any remaining sediment.
At Mainline Plumbing, Inc., our professional plumbers can inspect your water heater to prevent leaks and ensure everything is in working order. While homeowners may try to repair or install a water heater on their own to save money, improper work can result in other expensive issues.
If you need to flush, repair, or replace your water heater, contact our Modesto plumbers at Mainline Plumbing Inc. today.