Ever thought about how much your water heater does for you? It’s easy to take for granted until you’re faced with a cold shower! But like any hardworking appliance, your water heater needs a little TLC to keep running efficiently and extend its lifespan.
One of the most important, yet often overlooked, maintenance tasks is bleeding your water heater. Don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds!
What is “Bleeding” Your Water Heater?
Essentially, it means draining a few gallons of water from the spigot located at the bottom of your water heater. Think of it like flushing out the system.
Why Is This Important?
Over time, sediment (like minerals and rust particles) can accumulate at the bottom of your water heater tank. This buildup acts as an insulator, making your water heater work harder to heat the water. This leads to:
Decreased Heating Efficiency: Your water heater uses more energy to achieve the same temperature, costing you more on your utility bills.
Reduced Hot Water Supply: The sediment takes up space, meaning there’s less room for actual hot water.
Potential Element Damage: In electric water heaters, heating elements can become encased in sediment, leading to overheating and premature failure. For gas water heaters, sediment can interfere with the burner’s efficiency.
How Often Should You Do It?
Aim to “bleed” your water heater once a year. This simple ritual can make a big difference!
A Word of Caution:
The water coming out will be hot, so exercise extreme caution. You might want to let the water cool down first or use a hose to direct the water to a drain.
Taking a few minutes once a year to bleed your water heater can save you money, improve your hot water supply, and prevent costly repairs down the line. Give your hardworking water heater the attention it deserves!
Didn’t find your heater problem solution here? Contact us, and we’ll gladly assist you further.
What’s one maintenance tip you swear by for your home appliances? Share it in the comments!
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