Want to extend the life of your water heater and save on energy costs?

If you are looking for an expert for routine water heater maintenance, feel free to contact us at AVS Heating and Air Conditioning. To schedule an appointment, call us at (703) 457-9028 (VA Customers) or (301) 686-7129 (MD Customers).

Importance of Regular Water Heater Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your water heater is important for several reasons:

1. Safety: Water heaters can be dangerous if they are not properly maintained. A malfunctioning water heater can cause leaks, floods, or even explosions. Regular maintenance can help prevent these hazards.
2. Efficiency: A well-maintained water heater will operate more efficiently, which can help reduce your energy costs.
3. Longevity: Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your water heater. By identifying and addressing potential problems early, you can avoid costly repairs or replacements in the future.
4. Improved Performance: Regular maintenance can help ensure that your water heater is performing at its best, providing you with hot water when you need it.
5. Cost-effective: Regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs or replacements in the future; it is much less expensive to maintain your water heater than it is to replace it.
6. Warranty: Many manufacturers require regular maintenance in order to keep the warranty valid, so regular maintenance can save you money in the long run.

Overall, regular maintenance of your water heater is a small investment that can pay off in the long run in terms of safety, efficiency, longevity, improved performance, cost-effectiveness, and warranty.

Types of Water Heaters and their Maintenance Requirements

There are several types of water heaters, each with its own maintenance requirements. Some common types include:

1. Conventional Water Heaters: These are one of the most common types of water heaters and require regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank to remove sediment, checking the temperature and pressure relief valve, and checking the anode rod to prevent corrosion.
2. Tankless Water Heaters: These heat water on demand and require less maintenance than storage tank water heaters. However, they still need to be checked for leaks, have their heat exchanger inspected, and have their filters cleaned.
3. Solar Water Heaters: These use energy from the sun to heat water and require regular maintenance, such as checking the system’s fluid levels, cleaning the solar collectors, and inspecting the system’s valves and connections.
4. Heat Pump Water Heaters: These use electricity to move heat from the air or ground to heat water. They require regular maintenance such as cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting the ductwork and refrigerant lines, and checking the temperature and pressure relief valve.
5. Hybrid Water Heaters: These are a combination of storage tanks and tankless water heaters. They require regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank to remove sediment, checking the temperature and pressure relief valve, and checking the anode rod to prevent corrosion.

It is important to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific maintenance requirements for the type of water heater you have.

Things to Expect During a Water Heater Maintenance Check

Here are some important tasks that our professional performs during a routine water heater maintenance check.

1. Our plumber will inspect your water heater to identify any potential problems and assess its overall condition.
2. Our plumber will flush the water heater tank to remove the sediment buildup, which can cause damage and decrease the efficiency of the unit.
3. They will check the anode rod to see if it needs to be replaced. The anode rod attracts corrosive elements and prolongs the life of the tank.
4. Our plumber will also check if the temperature and pressure relief valve is working properly and that there is no rust or corrosion.
5. They will check for any leaks around the water heater or in the connections.
6. They will check the venting system to make sure that it is clear and not blocked.
7. Our plumber will check the burner and pilot light to ensure that they are functioning properly.
8. Our plumber will check that the thermostat is accurate and properly calibrated.
9. Our plumber will clean the exterior of the water heater and the surrounding area.
10. They will provide recommendations for any repairs or replacements needed and also advise you on how to maintain your water heater for optimal performance and longevity.

It is important to schedule regular maintenance service, to prevent costly repairs or replacements in the future.

Signs of Water Heater Failure and When to Call a Professional

There are several signs that your water heater may be failing and it is time to call our professional:

• No Hot Water: If your water heater is not producing hot water, it may be due to a malfunction that may require repair or No Hot Water: replacement.
• Leaking: If you notice water or other fluids leaking from your water heater, it is a sign of a serious problem and should be addressed immediately by our professional.
• Rust-Colored Water: If the water coming out of your faucets is rust-colored, it is likely that your water heater is corroded and in need of replacement.
• Strange Noises: If you hear rumbling, popping, or other strange noises coming from your water heater, it may be a sign of sediment buildup and in need of maintenance.
• Lack of Pressure: If you notice that the water pressure is low, it may be a sign of a problem with the water heater.
• Age: If your water heater is more than 10-15 years old and showing signs of wear and tear, it may be time to consider a replacement.
  Warning Signs: If you see warning signs like rusting or leakage on the tank, it is time to contact our professional.

It is important to address these issues as soon as possible, to prevent further damage and to ensure the safety of your household. One of our plumbing experts at AVS Heating and Air Conditioning will be able to diagnose and fix the problem and advise you on whether the water heater needs to be repaired or replaced.

To schedule an appointment, call us at (703) 457-9028 (VA Customers) or (301) 686-7129 (MD Customers).