Benefits Summary:
- Extend the life of your water heater.
- Reduce energy costs.
A little effort goes a long way toward extending the life of your water heater and unlike some home projects, these checks can be performed with nothing more than a bucket and a flathead screwdriver!
TEST THE TPR (Temperature Pressure Release) VALVE:
- Shut off the power and water supply.
- Place a bucket under the valve.
- Lift the valve to release water then let go.
A working pressure release valve will stop when the valve is closed. If water continues to flow, drain the tank partway, remove the defective valve and replace it with a new one.
REMOVE SEDIMENT TRAPPED IN THE TANK
- Shut off the power and water supply.
- Drain the tank entirely.
- Briefly open the cold water supply valve.
- Drain and repeat until clean water drains from the tank.
- Close the drain, refill the tank, and turn the power back on.
Sediment trapped inside your water tank increases the deterioration of your unit.
ADJUST THE TEMPERATURE
- Locate the thermostat.
- Use a flathead screwdriver to set the temperature to 120°.
- Turn the water heater off or to the lowest setting if you plan to be away for more than three days.
Every 10° the thermostat is lowered can result in up to 5% savings in energy costs.
These three simple steps can extend the life of your water-heating unit. If scheduling or priorities make it impossible for you to perform these tasks, consider hiring a certified professional to service and maintain your water heater.