When you think of the conveniences of modern living, few improvements can top the hot water heater. After all, most of us could go a day or two without our TVs, microwaves, or computers if we really had to, but going that long without a warm shower is unthinkable. Considering how important water heaters are to our daily lives, then, isn't it about time you brushed up on the basics of yours? A little knowledge can go a long way, and a bit of preventative maintenance now can make sure you don't find yourself shivering in a towel, looking up an Olathe plumbing company in the phonebook because your water heater went out mid-shower!
First and foremost with any water heater is to make sure the temperature is set properly, with around 120 degrees being a good base setting. Since the water heater has a big thermostat on it that may sound easy enough, but it's important that you periodically check the actual temperature of the hot water coming out of your taps. By doing so you will be able to make sure the thermostat is accurate, which is crucial—if it's running hotter than you think, it will cost you big bucks on your monthly bill. Even worse, an inaccurate thermostat can lead to water coming out too hot, and potentially scalding you.
Making sure the temperature is correctly set may be the first thing to do, but it's hardly the last, or even the most important. The single most essential test you can do at home is to make sure the pressure release valve is operating correctly. Consult with your user's manual to find out exactly how to do this, and remember, if you have any concerns or questions, consult a reliable Olathe plumbing company to ensure everything is working correctly. If a pressure valve is not working properly it can cause the entire unit to explode, and so this is definitely something to call in a professional for if you have any doubts at all.
As far as other safety precautions are concerned, be sure to keep the area around your water heater free of flammable items. Because a water heater uses a pilot light, there is also the risk of accidental fire or even explosion if there are any gases or fumes in the area, such as a garage. Also make sure that the unit is properly ventilated, otherwise carbon monoxide can build up instead of being expelled.
In addition to these safety-related maintenance measures, there are also steps you can take to reduce the energy consumption of you water heater. Draining the sediment from your water heater is one of the best measures you can take to save energy, and thus money. Insulating both your water heater and its pipes can also reduce the energy your unit uses, but be sure that you do so safely, using the proper materials so as not to create a fire hazard. As with everything discussed here, consult your unit's manual before attempting to do any of this on your own, and call in a professional if you are unsure.
Founded in 1980, Davenport Service Company has provided "Customer First" service in Johnson County, Kansas for over three decades. We provide 24/7 emergency service, preventive maintenance service, and seasonal tune-ups for commercial and residential heating and air conditioning systems. If you're looking for a furnace tune-up in Olathe, call 913-441-2222 for hassle-free scheduling today!
