Showering consumes six to eight gallons of water but baths draw double that amount. Laundry splashes out on water use: 20 to 30 gallons per load. Dishwashers, however, scrimp at six to 10 gallons per cycle. Amounts may vary but these critical household activities demand one type of water only: hot.
“Typical households draw 80 to 120 gallons of hot water daily, and for most people, a traditional water heater keeps it flowing,” says Brady Radmall, President, Paul Davis Restoration of Phoenix, Arizona, who adds that alternative models like on-demand and geothermal are beginning to gain market share. “But water heaters require care and attention because they can leak. Slow and minor or sudden and catastrophic, many leaks can be prevented with an easy, three-step approach.”
Maintain:
- Periodically flush water heater tanks to remove sediment, which can cause overheating, slow heating and higher energy use. Experts often advise yearly flushes.
- Test the pressure relief valve, which opens when tank pressure becomes too high. Instructions for this simple procedure are readily available online.
- Set tank temperature high enough – above 120 degrees Fahrenheit – to reduce microbial growth.
Inspect:
- Inspect the heater for leaks, which often begin as tiny pinholes or rusty spots. Any leak, no matter how small, indicates a pressing problem. If you find one, turn the water heater off and call a professional.
- Check anode rods. Water heaters contain a sacrificial metal rod designed to rust before tank components rust. It must be in good condition to maintain protection.
- Pay attention to warning signs such as rusty or discolored water; inconsistent hot water or varying temperatures; strange noises like rumbling, popping or banging; and odd water smells. Contact a professional to evaluate warning signs.
Replace:
- Water heaters have limited lifespans, lasting eight to 12 years on average. Timely replacement with a new model is the best safeguard against leaks.
- Replacement often saves on energy costs as well. Not only are newer models more efficient but older models typically consume more energy as they age.
“Minor leaks are fairly common and damaging, but a bit of time and thought usually prevents them,” Radmall concludes. “Happily, explosions and catastrophic failures are vanishingly rare these days thanks to protective devices that are standard on modern water heaters.”
When things go wrong, we do what’s right. Our restoration experts are ready to help at any hour, any day of the year if your water heater malfunctions.
