At Pickerington Plumbing & Drain, we understand the importance of water heater maintenance! When you stay on top of preventative care for your water heater, you are taking part in extending its lifespan and ensuring optimal performance. However, one vital maintenance aspect often neglected by homeowners is flushing the water heater’s tank. But when should this task ideally be carried out? How frequently should it be completed? These are excellent questions. Continue reading as we delve into the specifics of water heater maintenance together!
Why Should I Get My Water Heater Flushed?
When minerals accumulate in the water heater’s tank over time, they harden into solid matter, forming layers that line the tank’s interior. These hardened sediments create a barrier that can impact the system’s efficiency, leading to increased energy usage, longer heating times, and potentially costly repairs. As such, regularly flushing the tank removes sediment buildup, ensuring its optimal performance. Note that water hardness affects mineral content, meaning you will need to have your tank flushed more often if you have hard water.
When Should I Get My Water Heater Flushed?
The optimal seasons for flushing your water heater are spring and fall. This is mainly because these periods align with reduced hot water usage in households.
- In the spring – Spring brings milder temperatures, resulting in decreased hot water needs. It’s the perfect time to prepare your water heater for increased usage in the upcoming summer months. A spring flush guarantees optimal system efficiency during peak periods.
- In the fall – In the fall season, it is strategic to flush your water heater. Just as you prepare your home for the upcoming colder months, your water heater also needs this same attention. Flushing your water heater during autumn ensures a clear system free of sediment buildup before it contends with the increased demand for hot water in winter.
If you are unable to schedule bi-annual service for your water heater, aim for an annual flush instead. If your water heater is overdue for a flush, be sure to arrange as soon as possible!
What Signs Should I Lookout For?
In addition to following a seasonal approach, specific indicators may suggest the need for flushing your water heater in between your regular appointments!
- Pay Attention to Water Temperature – If you’re finding that your hot water is running out quicker than usual, it could be due to sediment buildup in the tank. This sediment can insulate the water from the heater’s elements, reducing the available hot water. This might signal that it’s time for a water heater flush.
- Listen for Unusual Noises – Another indicator is that your water heater requires flushing is the presence of unusual noises, like popping, rumbling, or crackling sounds. These sounds occur due to the heating elements working harder to warm the water through layers of sediment.
- Look for Discolored Water – If the water you’re getting from your taps looks off-color, it might be a sign that rust and sediment are building up in your tank. As a result, flushing the tank can rid it of these impurities, ensuring your household has clean, clear water.
Regularly flushing your water heater can significantly extend its lifespan and efficiency. By strategically planning this maintenance task during the lower hot water consumption seasons of spring and fall and keeping an eye out for signs that a flush is needed, you can help make sure your water heater remains in peak condition throughout the year. While flushing a water heater is manageable for many, hiring a professional plumber can provide peace of mind and guarantee that the job is done safely and effectively.
If you need to schedule an appointment for a water heater flush, feel free to call Pickerington Plumbing & Drain today at (614) 350-1955 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
