A well-kept water heater is a pillar of your plumbing system, quietly delivering hot water whenever you need it. As such, regular maintenance is a must! Even though it might be in the shadows, your water heater deserves some TLC now and then. One vital part of water heater care that often gets overlooked is a tank flush. So, join Five Star Dayton Plumbing as we chat about why it’s important to flush your water heater and when it’s the right time to do it.
Know Why It Matters:
Knowing why you need to flush your water heater is vital.
- Over time, as you continue to use your water heater, minerals in the water will naturally build up and form as sediment on the interior lining both the sides and the bottom of the tank. When this sediment forms, it acts as an unfortunate barrier that prevents the water heater from performing its job effectively. This is where flushing your water tank comes in; it helps to clear out these mineral deposits, keeping your water heater running smoothly as intended.
- Another thing to keep in mind is that the harder your water is, the more minerals it will have in it, which means your water heater’s tank will accumulate sediment buildup after a faster rate. So, if you live in an area with hard water, which contains high mineral content, you may need to flush your water heater more frequently.
Understand When to Have It Done:
Now that we know why water heaters need to be flushed regularly, let’s move on to the real question. When is the best time to flush your water heater?
While it is recommended that your water heater gets flushed twice a year (once in spring and once in fall), we also understand that water usage and water type differ from home to home. As a homeowner, you can adjust the frequency of having your water heater flushed based on its performance and your needs. However, keep in mind that we highly recommend you have this service performed at least once a year. Generally, this service should be done when hot water demand is low, which is why we advise doing so during the springtime or the fall season. So, if you think your water heater may be due for a tank flushing take advantage of the weather now to get one scheduled!
Look Out for Signs:
Besides your regular scheduled flushes, you still want to keep an eye out for any issues that may indicate your water heater may be having issues. You should look and listen for strange sounds, reduced amounts of hot water, or signs of discolored water. These indicators could mean trouble. If you do notice these, don’t wait for your next annual flush; you should contact and get a licensed plumber on the job as soon as you are able to.
Water heater care isn’t the most exciting topic, but it’s definitely worth the effort! By keeping up with your regular flushes and plumbing maintenance, you’ll ensure your heater works efficiently and lasts longer. So, mark your calendar, schedule those flushes, and enjoy a steady supply of hot water in your home! Lastly, if you are interested in learning about more ways to take care of your home and plumbing system, feel free to check out the rest of our blogs!
If you need to schedule a water heater flush, call Five Star Dayton Plumbing today at (937) 230-6506, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
