Today, water heaters are a common feature in modern homes. They're an essential type of appliance that makes everyday life more convenient and comfortable. After all, we use hot water for everything, from bathing to laundry. A water heater is not only an important type of appliance, but it’s also an appliance in your home that poses big risks. If a water heater malfunctions, you run the risk of fire hazards as well as flooding risks. That said, a local plumbing company can help you keep water heaters in great shape. Let’s learn more about water heaters and their maintenance.

Basic Water Heater Maintenance

Basic water heater maintenance usually consists of flushing the unit occasionally. It can also include checking and changing the anode rod when needed. A local plumbing company can also help with maintenance tasks such as inspecting for leaks and rust as well as testing the thermostat and valves. Flushing the system is probably one of the most important tasks, however, and should never be skipped.

The Importance of Flushing the System

Flushing out the system is important because, over time, sediment builds up in the heater. This causes scaling in the unit, which is the buildup of limescale. Scaling can lead to rust and leaks and slow down the heating process. Ultimately, this causes the heater to work harder and harder to heat the water. This uses more energy, increases your energy bills, and overall wears down your water heater. Annual flushing with professional plumbers helps to alleviate this problem, prolong the life of your heater, and decrease your energy bills.

Tankless Heater Maintenance

As you may know, these units are becoming increasingly popular. After all, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, a quality tankless water heater can save homeowners $400 to $600 in energy costs per year. Tankless water heaters have different types of maintenance needs, but those maintenance tasks are just as important. One of the biggest differences will be the way that the flushing is done and the tools that are used to complete this task. A tankless heater requires special tools. It’s best to call in a professional to ensure the job is done properly.

To learn more about the water heater maintenance process, reach out to an expert near you. If you’re looking for a local plumbing company to help you with water heater maintenance in Collinsville, Edwardsville, Vandalia, or any of the surrounding communities, please contact our team at Mars Plumbing & Heating today.