As simple as it might seem to the eye, a water heater is an appliance that can cost you more than you can imagine if you fail to maintain it properly. Proper maintenance means you need to set measures that ensure your water heater is always in good conditions. Conducting regular checkups is the most important measure, because it allows early detection of faulty parts before the problems becomes big enough to warrant a replacement of the parts or the whole machine. Other measures include:
Dialing down the temperature
You need to dial the temperature to a level between 115 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit. By doing so, you prevent the tank from overheating. The energy that is required to heat the water is reduced, and energy consumption is reduced. You can access the temperature-setting dial via a thermostat on the appliance or a knob on the machine’s gas valve.
Testing the TPR (Temperature Pressure Release) valve
To check if the valve is functioning normally, lift the lever connected to the valve for some few seconds and then let it go. By lifting the lever, water should pass through the drain tube connected to the valve. You should also be able to hear gurgling sound as water is released into the tube.
Performing a mini-flush
Flushing helps in removing deposits from the base of the tank. Conducting a full flush is the best way to remove the sediments but it can take a lot of time & since it is necessary to shut down the water heater first. A mini-flush does not require you to shut down the machine and takes a short time. To carry out a mini-flush, turn the valve found near the bottom of the tank in a counter-clockwise direction, but ensure you have a bucket under the drain valve before first. Allow water to run out for some few minutes and then close valve by turning it in a clockwise direction. If no water runs from the spout, contact a water heater in Colorado Springs CO specialist for help.
Proper maintenance of a water heater Colorado Springs CO increases efficiency and lifespan of the machine. In case your water heater malfunctions, it is better to seek the services of a plumber.
