Everything You Need To Know About Water Heater Maintenance and Troubleshooting

We always take hot water for granted until it is suddenly unavailable. We rely on our water heaters for many everyday tasks, like taking a warm shower, washing dishes, or doing laundry. So, when your water heater shows signs of maintenance, it can disrupt your routine.

At Ausco Plumbing, we know how important it is to have a reliable hot water system. This is why we’ve created this guide to help you keep your hot water running with good and efficient water heater maintenance. Following our simple tips, you can do your daily tasks without any unexpected problems. 

Why is Regular Water Heater Maintenance Important?

Taking care of your water heater is more than just having a hot water supply when needed. Regularly water heater maintenance helps:

• Avoid Costly Repairs: Regular maintenance is important in spotting minor issues before they turn into big, expensive hot water repairs. Fixing a small leak early or replacing a worn-out part now can save you a lot in the long run. 
• Make your Water Heater Last Longer: When you take good care of it, it can last longer. This means you don’t need to replace it soon—of course, this means less hassle and expense. 
• Get Consistent Hot Water Supply: By regularly maintaining your water heater, you can be sure it can consistently provide hot water. You also don’t have to worry about dealing with sudden temperature changes. 
• Keep your Home Safe: A water heater that is not maintained can be risky. Problems like gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, or even tank explosions (although rare) can happen because of this. 

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Maintenance

Sometimes, it is not obvious when your water heater needs a bit of attention. Here are a few signs you should watch out for that indicate that it’s time for your water heater maintenance:

• Issues with Hot Water: If your hot water supply is not continuous or comes and goes, it could be due to a problem with your water heater’s heating element. In some cases, these are caused by thermostat issues or sediment in the tank. 
• Unusual Noises: If you hear some popping, banging, rumbling, or other weird sounds from your water heater, this could mean sediment has built up in your tank. Flushing the tank might help. However, if the noises continue, it’s time to check it out. 
• Rust or Leaks: If you notice rust or leaks around your water heater, it is a major sign that it needs maintenance. Rust could mean that your water heater tank is corroding, and leaks can cause water damage to your home. 
• Slow Heating: If your water takes longer to heat up than usual, there could be an issue with your unit’s thermostat or other heating elements. 
• Discoloured Water: If your hot water looks discoloured or rusty, it could mean there’s corrosion inside the pipes or tanks. You may need to replace your anode rods, or worse, the tank itself might be wearing out. 

Effective Maintenance Tips for Water Heaters

Keeping your water heater in good shape doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple maintenance tips for different types of water heaters:

Gas Water Heaters

Gas water heaters use natural gas or propane to heat water faster, making them ideal for homes with a high demand for hot water. To maintain your gas water heaters, you need to check for leaks regularly and make sure the pilot light and burner are working properly. You could also troubleshoot by checking all gas connections and dirt that clogs the burner. 

Electric Water Heaters

These water heaters use electricity to warm water, which means they are energy-efficient. Electric water heaters are also often easier to install because they don't need venting or gas lines. You need to check the heating elements for wear and tear for these water heaters. Sediment may also build up in the tank, so it’s a good idea to flush it out once a year. Electrical connections should also be secure, and thermostats must be set correctly to prevent overheating. 

Heat Pump Water Heaters

Heat pump water heaters use less electricity by pulling heat from the air or ground to heat your water. This makes them very efficient in warmer climates. These water heaters need a bit more specific care to run efficiently. To maintain them, you must regularly clean the air filters and coils. You can also check the heat exchanger to troubleshoot any issues because it helps with the heater system’s performance. The drainage system must also be maintained to prevent water buildup. 

When to Call a Professional

Even if you keep up with maintenance, some water heater problems require professional help. Plumbers have the right tools and knowledge to handle issues that are complicated for regular maintenance. Calling a professional can save you time and effort, and more importantly, it gives you peace of mind that the maintenance is done correctly. 

At Ausco Plumbing, we are always here to help you with any water issues in your home. Whether you need maintenance or repair, our hot water plumbers are ready to handle your water issues quickly and efficiently. Contact us today and enjoy hot water whenever you need it.