At Lebanon Plumbing & Drain, we believe that keeping your water heater in top shape is key to its longevity and efficiency. Yet, one vital maintenance step that many homeowners forget is flushing the water heater tank. So, when’s the best time to do this? How frequently should you tackle it? These are all valid questions. Stick around as we dive into the ins and outs of water heater maintenance together!
Know Why It’s Necessary:
When minerals build up in your water heater’s tank over time, these mineral deposits harden, creating solid layers that can affect the system’s efficiency. This may lead to increased energy usage, slower water heating, and potential costly repairs. Regularly flushing the tank removes these sediments, ensuring optimal performance. Remember, the harder your water, the more minerals it contains, so more frequent flushing might be needed for your water heater tank if your home has hard water.
Know When You Should Flush the Tank:
The ideal times to flush your water heater are spring and fall. These are when most homes use less hot water.
- Spring – With spring comes milder temps, leading to lower hot water needs. It’s the perfect time to get your water heater ready for increased usage in the upcoming summer. Flushing your water heater in spring helps your system run smoother when you need it most.
- Fall – Similarly, when fall rolls around, it’s a smart move to flush your water heater. Just like prepping your home for the chilly months ahead, your water heater needs some love, too. Flushing it in the fall means clearing out any sediment buildup before it kicks into high gear for winter’s hot water duty.
If you are unable to have your water heater serviced bi-annually, try to aim for an annual water heater flush. And if your water heater is overdue for a flush, make sure to schedule one as soon as you can. We would be delighted to assist you with this important service!
Know the Signs to Look for:
In addition to the seasonal approach, specific indicators may suggest the need for flushing your water heater, regardless of the time of year.
- Unusual Noises – One of the initial indications that your water heater could use some flushing is when you start hearing odd noises like pops, rumbles, or crackling sounds. These sounds happen because the heating elements are putting in extra effort to heat the water due to built-up sediment layers.
- Discolored Water – If the water from your taps looks off, it might be due to rust and sediment in your tank. Flushing it out can clear these impurities, giving you clean water for your home.
- Reduced Hot Water – If your hot water seems to disappear faster than usual, it could be due to sediment building up in the tank. This can insulate the water from the heater’s elements, reducing the amount of hot water you get. It might be a good time for a tank flush.
Regularly flushing your water heater can really help it last longer and work better. Planning to do this when you’re using less hot water in spring and fall, and watching for signs it needs a flush, will keep your water heater in top shape. And remember, while many can handle flushing it themselves, hiring a pro can give peace of mind and ensure it’s done safely and well. Interested in learning more information about your home and plumbing system’s upkeep? Check out the rest of our blogs!
So, if you’re in need of a water heater flush, what are you waiting for? Call Lebanon Plumbing & Drain today at (513) 427- 2443, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!