By Matt Naylor, Licensed Master Plumber at Beehive Plumbing
Your water heater plays a vital role in keeping your home comfortable. When it’s working well, you may not think about it much. But when it starts to fail, the problems can escalate quickly.
Those issues could range from a lack of hot water to full-blown flooding or even a rare explosion. Regular water heater maintenance is crucial to prevent these disasters and keep your plumbing running smoothly.
Here’s what to look for and how to stay ahead of common water heater issues.
Water Heater Maintenance and Signs of Failure
Knowing the early signs of water heater failure can save you from a major headache (and a flooded basement).
Here are the top indicators that your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan:
1. Reduced Hot Water
If you’ve noticed that your showers are getting colder more quickly than usual, this is often the first sign that something is wrong. When sediment builds up inside the tank, it forms a barrier between the burner and the water, making it harder to heat the water efficiently.
You might be taking a shower one day and suddenly realize that the hot water only lasted 10 minutes, when it used to last 20. This is a common symptom of sediment buildup in the tank. It’s also a warning sign that your water heater is struggling to keep up.
2. Sediment Buildup
Sediment accumulation inside the tank is a direct result of hard water, especially in places like Utah, where water hardness is high.
As water is heated, minerals like calcium and magnesium settle at the bottom of the tank, forming a thick layer of sediment.
Over time, this sediment causes the water heater to work harder, increasing the chances of overheating and tank damage. If you ignore that, eventually that heat will crack the tank and flood wherever that water heater is.
3. Leaking or Dripping
Visible water around the base of your water heater is a red flag. Leaks can indicate that the tank is corroded or that there’s a malfunction in one of the valves.
This might start as a small drip, but if left unattended, it can escalate into a significant leak that floods the area around the water heater.
If you see water around the water heater, you should immediately call a licensed plumber.
Early detection of water heater failure can prevent major damage and the cost for a replacement.
Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPM) Valve
One component of your water heater that often goes overlooked is the Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPM) valve. This safety device is essential for preventing dangerous pressure buildups inside the tank.
The TPM valve is designed to release water if the temperature or pressure gets too high, keeping your water heater from becoming a safety hazard.
The TPM valve should be tested yearly, but nobody tests it.
If this valve fails and the pressure inside the tank has nowhere to go—kaboom. The results can be catastrophic.
To test the TPM valve, you can gently lift the valve’s lever to allow a small amount of water to release. If the valve doesn’t release water or continues leaking after the test, it’s time to replace it.
Don’t delay—this is a key safety feature of your water heater.
Regular Water Heater Maintenance
Like most things in your home, your water heater will last longer and perform better with regular maintenance. By being proactive, you can avoid costly repairs or an emergency replacement.
Here’s how regular maintenance can help:
- Extend the Life of Your Water Heater: By flushing your water heater annually to remove sediment and testing your TPM valve, you can add years to the life of your water heater.
- Avoid Costly Water Damage: Regular checks can help prevent leaks that lead to expensive repairs, mold, or flood damage.
- Prevent Explosions: While rare, water heater explosions can happen when pressure builds up inside the tank. Testing the TPM valve regularly ensures this safety feature is functioning properly.
Don’t Wait for a Problem
Regular maintenance of your water heater is essential to avoid unexpected problems, such as running out of hot water or even a flood. Be sure to watch for signs of failure like reduced hot water, sediment buildup, or leaks, and always test the TPM valve to make sure it’s working as it should.
With these simple steps, you can keep your water heater running efficiently and safely for years to come. Contact our team anytime to learn more about water heater maintenance.
