Most homeowners don’t think about maintaining their hot water heaters until there’s a problem. However, just like any other appliance, your water heater requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. Whether you do it yourself or call in the professionals from L&M Plumbing to handle it for you, hot water heater maintenance should be performed annually.

Taking the time to do these simple tasks can help extend the life of your hot water heater and prevent costly repairs in the future.

If you’re wondering what kind of maintenance is needed for your hot water heater, here are a few tips:

• Check the temperature pressure relief valve (TPR). The TPR valve is very important because it helps release any excess pressure inside your tank that could cause damage or leaks. Shut off the power and cold water supply. Place a bucket under the pipe connected to the TPR valve. Lift the valve’s tab which will let water escape, then let it go. If water keeps flowing, the valve is bad. Partially drain the tank, remove the old valve using a pipe wrench, and install a new one.
• Inspect the anode rod. Attach a hose to the drain cock of the tank and release a few gallons of water. Use a wrench to unscrew the hex head on the top of the tank and unscrew the anode rod. If the rod is less than a 1/2 inch thick or is coated with white calcium deposits, it’s time to replace it.
• Flush the tank. Sediment builds up inside the tank as it operates throughout the year. You need to drain all remaining water into a bucket, then stir up the sediment that’s collected on the tank’s bottom by opening the cold-water supply valve briefly. You’ll need to drain and repeat this procedure until the water comes out clean. Then close the drain cock, fill your tank up and turn it back on.
• Temperature check. To save energy and avoid scalding, your tank’s temperature should be set to 120 degrees. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to adjust the temperature of your tank.
• Insulation. The pipes going into and out of your tank should be insulated using self-sticking 3/8-inch thick foam pipe insulation for the size of your pipes. The insulation can be purchased at any major box store. You can slide this foam over your pipes and help avoid condensation in the summer and freezing in the winter. The heater itself should be wrapped with an insulating blanket and sealed using foil tape. Be sure not to cover the top of an oil or gas heater. You should cap your electric heater with a large insulation circle and tape it to the sides of the tank.

If you’re looking for help properly maintaining your hot water heater in the Allentown PA area, call L&M Plumbing at (610) 756-3069. Our professional licensed plumbers can often spot mistakes you can easily overlook as a homeowner and make simple repairs that can save you big bucks down the road.