How to Maintain a Water Heater

 

 

A water heater is an appliance that provides a continuous source of hot water to the household. It uses various forms of energy, such as electricity, natural gas or geothermal power. There are two main types of water heaters: tank and tankless. The latter allows you to have an endless supply of hot water even when you are away from home. Tankless water heaters are more expensive than the other two, but they are also known to be more energy efficient.

 

Water heaters are characterized by their steel or metal outer shell, a lining of insulating material, a gas burner, and a flue. They typically use natural gas, propane or oil to heat the water. If you are considering buying a new water heater, you should be familiar with the different models and their components. You should also understand how to maintain your water heater to ensure it performs efficiently and lasts for a long time. Choose the plumbers in casa grande as they offer quality services.

 

Generally, the tank of a water heater is a thick metal cylinder covered in glass. However, in some models, there may be a small amount of steel or metal exposed at the bottom of the heater. This is a sign that the unit is not performing properly. In such cases, you should contact a professional technician to check the unit.

 

The inside of the tank is lined with a thin layer of vitreous glass or plastic to keep the unit from rusting. A sacrificial anode rod is suspended in the tank, usually made of magnesium or aluminum.

 

Flushing the unit helps remove sediment from the tank, and it is recommended to do so at least once a year. Sediment clumps together at the bottom of the tank and shortens its life. If the sediment accumulates too much, you may have to drain the tank. An easy way to empty the tank is to open the drain valve and then fill it with cool water.

 

Another important feature of a water heater is its pressure relief valve. It is important that this valve is working properly to avoid premature failure. When the water heater is not functioning properly, it can cause a leaking tank, an icy shower, and a higher operating cost. Having the water heater drained regularly will help you save money and prevent any future problems.

 

Another common problem with water heaters is internal corrosion. This occurs when sediment and minerals from the water source clog up the tank. These deposits can decrease the water heater's efficiency. Using a professional to drain the tank will help you keep the unit working smoothly. You can click here to learn more on water heating solutions.

 

Most water heaters use a thermostat to regulate the temperature of the water inside the tank. The temperature of the water can range between 120 and 180 degrees Fahrenheit. As the water reaches the desired temperature, the heater turns on its gas burner. Some newer heaters use a thermocouple, which is a small valve that converts the heat from the flames to an electrical impulse. Explore more on this subject by clicking here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_heating.