As the temperature drops in Essex County, MA, and surrounding areas, your water heater starts working overtime to keep your home warm and provide hot water for showers, dishes, and other daily needs. With winter in full swing, the cold weather can put extra strain on your water heater, especially when it’s running constantly to keep up with the increased demand. That’s why it’s crucial to take steps to ensure that your water heater is properly maintained and ready to handle the winter months.
In this helpful article, we’ll go over several maintenance tips to protect your water heater during the coldest months of the year. These steps will help extend the lifespan of your unit, keep it running efficiently, and reduce the likelihood of an inconvenient breakdown during a winter storm.
1. Check the Temperature Setting
The first step in protecting your water heater is ensuring that the temperature setting is appropriate for both efficiency and safety. Most water heaters are factory-set to 140°F, but this temperature can be higher than necessary for many households.
Why Should You Adjust the Temperature?
If your water heater is set too high, it will consume more energy than necessary to heat the water. A setting between 120°F and 130°F is typically sufficient for most households, providing hot water without wasting energy. In fact, reducing the temperature by 10°F can cut energy consumption by as much as 5% to 10%.
During the colder months, when your water heater is already working harder to keep up with demand, adjusting the temperature can help prevent unnecessary strain. If you’re not sure how to adjust the temperature on your water heater, a professional from Maffei Services can assist you.
2. Drain Sediment Buildup
Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium from hard water accumulate at the bottom of your water heater tank. This sediment buildup can affect your water heater’s efficiency, causing it to overheat and work harder to heat water, ultimately shortening its lifespan. During winter, when your water heater is working harder than usual, this buildup can be even more problematic.
How to Prevent and Remove Sediment Buildup
To prevent sediment buildup, it’s a good idea to drain your water heater at least once a year. Flushing the tank removes the accumulated sediment, helping the water heater run more efficiently. During this process, your plumber from Maffei Services will attach a hose to the drain valve and let the water flow out, along with the sediment.
Signs of Sediment Buildup
If your water heater is making rumbling or popping noises, it’s likely due to sediment buildup inside the tank. This is a sign that the unit needs to be flushed to restore optimal performance. If you’re not sure how to flush the tank, it’s best to contact Maffei Services to schedule a professional maintenance visit.
3. Check the Anode Rod
The anode rod in your water heater plays a critical role in preventing rust and corrosion inside the tank. This metal rod attracts the corrosive elements in the water, which would otherwise damage the tank’s interior. Over time, the anode rod can wear down and lose its effectiveness, especially in homes with hard water.
Why Is the Anode Rod Important?
Without a properly functioning anode rod, the inside of your water heater tank can corrode, leading to leaks and even complete tank failure. A damaged or corroded tank requires expensive replacement, so checking the anode rod regularly is an important part of maintenance.
How to Maintain the Anode Rod
If you’ve had your water heater for several years, it’s a good idea to have the anode rod inspected and replaced if necessary. A plumber can check the rod’s condition and replace it before it leads to more significant issues. Replacing the anode rod regularly can extend the life of your water heater by several years, especially during the harsh winter months.
4. Schedule an Annual Water Heater Inspection
The winter months put a lot of pressure on your water heater, making it especially important to schedule an annual inspection before the cold weather sets in. A professional from Maffei Services can inspect your water heater for potential issues, clean the unit, and address any signs of wear and tear that could lead to future problems. Having a professional inspect your water heater helps identify issues early before they become serious, preventing emergency repairs during the winter.
5. Insulate Your Water Heater and Pipes
In areas like Essex County, where temperatures often drop below freezing, insulating your water heater and exposed pipes can help protect them from the cold. Insulating the tank and pipes will help maintain the water temperature, reduce energy loss, and ensure the system operates efficiently.
How to Insulate Your Water Heater
You can use an insulating blanket for your water heater tank. These are available at most home improvement stores and are relatively easy to install. Be sure to choose a blanket that is designed for your model and size of water heater.
Insulating Pipes
Exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces, are more susceptible to freezing. Insulating these pipes can help prevent them from freezing and bursting during cold spells. Foam pipe insulation is an affordable solution that can be easily installed on any exposed pipes.
6. Consider Upgrading to a More Efficient Water Heater
If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model. Modern water heaters, such as tankless or high-efficiency models, use less energy and provide hot water on demand. These systems work particularly well in colder months when you need more hot water for heating and household tasks.
Why Upgrade Now?
Upgrading your water heater before winter can help you save money on energy bills and avoid unexpected breakdowns. A new water heater will operate more efficiently and effectively, ensuring you have reliable hot water all season long.
If you need help with maintenance or repairs, Maffei Services is here to assist homeowners in Essex County, MA, and surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule your water heater inspection or ask about upgrading to a more energy-efficient model. Keep your water heater running smoothly, and you’ll enjoy reliable hot water all winter long!