A water heater is one of the most important appliances that any household possesses, supplying hot water for household use. Similar to any other appliance, this also needs regular maintenance if it is to operate as usual. A majority of homeowners overlook this valuable feature, believing that their water heater will function flawlessly without maintenance.
Ignoring preventative maintenance for water heaters will eventually lead to costly repairs or even complete failure. Routine checks and minor repairs can extend the lifespan of the water heater, allowing it to function efficiently for years. In this article, we will discuss what happens when maintenance is not performed and why taking care of your water heater is essential.
Consequences of Ignoring Routine Maintenance
Most homeowners feel that their water heater will operate on its own with minimal supervision, but that isn’t true. Without regular maintenance, a water heater will develop problems, including mineral buildup, leaks, and performance reductions. Over time, these little issues can lead to large repairs or even total system failure.
Preventive maintenance for water heaters is mainly intended to detect these problems early. Occasionally, checking the system, draining the tank, and replacing the thermostat can cost homeowners a lot of money. A heater that has been neglected will be subject to wear and tear that may result in costly replacement. This is especially true for homeowners, where the water conditions are harsh and further deteriorate.
Leakage and Water Damage are a Major Concern
One of the most critical issues that result from improper maintenance of water heaters is leaks. With time, pressure within the tank will increase as a result of damaged valves or sediment buildup. If this is not repaired, the excess pressure might result in cracks within the tank or cause the seals to fail, leading to leaks.
Leaks in the water supply waste precious resources in addition to having the potential to inflict significant water damage on your home. If the leak remains undetected for an extended period, it may lead to mold and mildew growth, rotting wood, and a shifting foundation. In older houses, where plumbing systems are often weak, this type of problem can develop into a serious issue very quickly.
Reduction in the Hot Water Supply
Have you ever turned on the shower and found that the water is not hot enough, even after turning on the heater for the needed time? If you ignore regular maintenance, then the water heater can lose its capacity to provide a consistent supply of hot water. The heating elements might get damaged, or the tank may become too weak to heat water quickly.
Performing regular inspections and cleaning them ensures that your water heater is maintained in good condition. Especially in areas where hot water is a daily necessity, a poorly maintained heater can disrupt your routine and make daily tasks even more difficult. This is why preventive maintenance is a necessary task to avoid these inconveniences.
Unusual Increase in Electricity Bills
A well-maintained water heater will work efficiently by using less energy to heat the water. When maintenance is ignored, the system becomes less effective and requires more energy to perform the same tasks. Factors like mineral buildup, faulty thermostats, and inefficient heating elements will contribute to an increase in energy consumption.
When you notice any fluctuation or increase in energy costs, the cause might be a poorly maintained water heater. Many homeowners might not realize how much extra they are paying until their next energy bill arrives. In these cases, maintaining the heater routinely helps ensure that the heater uses energy efficiently and saves your money in the long run.
Why is Preventive Maintenance Important?
One good thing is that maintaining a water heater is relatively simple. Getting help from professionals at regular intervals can help keep your heater away from major problems. Professionals inspect the valves and heating elements and check the thermostat settings, which will contribute to the heater’s longevity.
Availing preventative maintenance for your water heater is a small investment that leads to maintaining the heater’s efficiency, lowering energy bills, and providing a longer lifespan. Homeowners can be more relaxed after knowing their water heater is in top condition. By addressing minor issues before they become major problems, you can avoid costly repairs and replacements.
Signs You Need to Watch Out for in a Water Heater
It is necessary to know the warning signs that indicate something is wrong with your heater. Some of the signs include:
- No hot water or inconsistent water temperature
- Unusual noises, such as popping or banging sounds
- Leaking or pooling water around the base of the tank
- A noticeable increase in energy bills
- Foul odors are coming from the hot water supply.
If you notice any of these signs, it is time to call a professional for maintenance.
Ignoring preventative maintenance for water heaters will lead to costly repairs and a depreciation in the efficiency of the heater, and sometimes, the system might fail completely. Homeowners should set aside a time each year to perform maintenance. This helps them to keep their water heaters in top condition and avoid common pitfalls that come with neglect.
