Hot Water Heater Maintenance?

It’s easy to forget about your hot water heater maintenance, as it hides in the basement, garage or crawl space.

Here’s some information on hot water heater maintenance that can extend it’s life!

1. Check the water lines and fittings leading to the water heater tank for leaks.
2. Sweep around the bottom of the tank or use a shop vacuum to remove any dust, dirt or other debris.
3. Check/open the pressure relief valve for seeping, or leaks and test to make sure it works properly.
   • Opening the relief valve will allow hot water to come out. Remember, it will be HOT.
   • Attach a pipe to the relief valve that goes to a bucket or outside
4. Drain sediment that forms at the bottom of the tank. Place a bucket under the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater, then open the spigot and drain out a gallon or two of water.

A thorough flush can also be done, but is best performed by a professional:

1. Turn off the natural gas line or electric power source of the tank
2. Turn Off the cold water supply to the tank
3. Attach a standard garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, and run the hose outside, there will be several gallons of water.
4. Open the water heater drain valve. Then open the pressure relief valve, and allow all the water to drain out of the tank.
5. Once the tank is empty, leave the hose attached, and open the cold water valve for several minutes to flush out any remaining sediment.
6. Once the water coming out is clear, close the drain valve and pressure relief valve, and let the tank fill back up.
7. Now you can remove the garden hose, and restore electric power or turn the natural gas back on.

Here is some excellent Spring Cleaning Tips!