You can expect to get an average of 10-15 years out of the average water heater. Of course, this number can sway a bit from one way to another with the proper maintenance performed. There are several things you can do to help extend the life of your water heater. Most homeowners will do whatever it takes to avoid replacing large appliances like this in their home. Absolute Plumbing & Mechanical is here to share some tips to help you get the most out of your water heater.

Add a Water Heater Expansion Tank

There is a great deal of pressure that build up in your water heater as the water gets warmer. Your water gets heated from 50 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees and the water will expand by 2 percent. While this doesn’t sound like much, it means that there needs to be room for one more gallon of water in your water heater tank. If you have a closed water heater, you need to have somewhere for this water increase to go. Without adding a water expansion tank to your water heater, you could be facing premature failure.

Should I Flush My Water Heater?

This tip is especially beneficial for those that have an older water heater. Because of all the minerals that are found in your water, they can create buildup over time. You should be completely draining your tank once a year to prevent this buildup from happening. All you have to do is hook a hose up to your water heater and let the water flow to the street or in the drain located near the water heater.

Install a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV)

Having good water pressure is a wonderful thing while you are taking a shower, but if you have too much of it, it can cause problems. If your water pressure is above 90 psi, you need to consider installing a pressure regulating valve to help alleviate that pressure on your water heater. This will not only extend the life of your water heater, but other water using appliances as well. IF you have a PRV valve installed on your water heater, you definitely should have an expansion tank installed as well.

Consider a Water Softener

If you live in an area that has extremely hard water, a water softening system is a good idea. Hard water causes an even bigger risk of mineral buildup on your appliances and can greatly reduce their lifespan. This includes your water heater. You will find that a water softening system will extend the life of your entire plumbing system.

Water Heater Repair, Replacement & More in Santa Fe, Tomball, Sugar Land, Galveston, Austin & Greater Houston, Texas

If your water heater is acting up, you need to call on the help of the professionals at Absolute Plumbing & Mechanical. We have the experience and expertise to help you solve your water heater problems as well as handle any replacement needs. Call us today!