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Pro Tips for Water Heater Maintenance in Del Mar, CA

May 7, 2024

Home water heaters aren’t built to last. Over the years, corrosion and other forces will take their toll on a water heater. There will come a time when the water heater will have to be replaced.

1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration has been providing reliable, affordable water heater repairs in Del Mar. CA, since 2012. We’ve serviced just about every brand of water heater there is. Our advice for getting the most use out of your water heater: is regular maintenance.

Regular maintenance can slow the rate of wear, extending the useful life of your water heater. It can improve performance and help reduce operating costs. Here are some of our pro maintenance tips to keep your water heater in prime working condition:

Flush the Tank

Flushing your water heater’s tank once a year removes accumulated sediments that can cause damage and impact performance. Draining the tank is a simple task; just remember to turn the water heater off and allow the water to cool before opening the release valve.

Test the TPR valve

The temperature pressure relief (TPR) valve releases pressure when it builds up too much within a water heater. You should test your water heater’s TPR valve every 6 to 12 months to ensure it is functioning properly.

Adjust the Water Temperature

We recommend that you keep the water temperature at around 120°F (48°C). This is hot enough to prevent bacterial growth, but not hot enough to cause scald injuries, damage pipes, or create a fire hazard.

Check for Leaks

Leaks can reduce water heater performance, cause water damage, and increase your water bills. If you see water leaking out of your water heater or pooling on the floor around it, call a plumber in to have a look and perform repairs.

Check the Anode Rod

Anode rods need to be replaced on a regular basis, generally around 5 years. The anode rod attracts corrosive minerals in the water so that they corrode the rod rather than the inside of the tank. Once the rod has worn out, the corrosive materials circulate throughout the interior of the water heater, causing great damage.

Have Your Water Heater Inspected Regularly

Finally, it’s important to have your water heater regularly inspected by a professional plumber. They’ll be able to spot potential problems and make any required repairs, ensuring you have a safe, steady supply of hot water.

Professional Water Heater Inspection and Maintenance in Del Mar, CA

If it’s been a while since you’ve had your water heater inspected, give 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration a call. Our team of licensed Del Mar plumbers possess the expertise and tools to thoroughly inspect your water heater and perform any needed repairs. If it’s time to retire your old water heater, we can install a new one. You have many options to choose from, including tankless “on-demand” water heaters.

Avoid unnecessary water heater damage and repair costs. Call 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration today or contact us through our website to schedule your water heater inspection.