Water heaters are sturdy systems, but they aren’t invincible. If you want to get the most out of your water heater system, you need to make sure that it gets maintenance on a regular basis. Otherwise, you could be indirectly shortening the lifespan of your water heater. Read on to find out more about water heater maintenance, and how it can improve the lifespan of your system.
Checking the Anode Rod
The anode rod is a long metal rod, which is inserted into the water heater tank. While the anode rod is in contact with the water in the tank, it will slowly degrade. As long as the anode rod is degrading, it will attract the ions responsible for causing rust in the tank lining. This is part of a process called electrolysis. Eventually, though, the anode rod will degrade to the point where it can no longer protect the tank lining. At that point, it will need to be replaced. Part of water heater maintenance includes checking the anode rod, and replacing it if necessary.
Sediment Flushing
Over time, sediment can build up on the bottom of your water heater tank. If the sediment is not removed on a regular basis, it can eventually build up enough that it will insulate the water in the tank from the burner assembly. Until the sediment is flushed out, the system will be unable to heat the water in the tank properly. During water heater maintenance, the storage tank is flushed out to remove any sediment buildup that may already be inside. Extensive sediment buildup can be manually scrubbed out if it will not flow out on its own.
Douglas Cooling & Heating offers comprehensive water heater maintenance services throughout Mountain Brook, AL. If you need water heater maintenance services of any kind, call today to schedule an appointment.
