Water Heater Maintenance

Your water heater is one of the most essential appliances in your home. It’s required for every task that involves using hot water, including taking a shower, washing the dishes, or doing laundry. Scheduling water heater maintenance each year ensures it is in peak condition. Water heaters have many parts that can wear out while sediment buildup can be a problem without regular tank flushes. Neglecting routine service can reduce water quality and lead to major repairs.

The #1 plumbing company in Southern California, NexGen has fully licensed and insured technicians you can trust for water heaters and other plumbing services.

NexGen’s trained professionals use a detailed water heater maintenance checklist to ensure every aspect of your unit is covered. Here are some of the most important aspects of the process:

• Flush the Unit: Removing sediment from the tank improves water heater efficiency and protects your water lines. The unit and the cold-water inlet are turned off. Then a garden hose is attached to the drain valve and directed to an area where hot water can safely drain. The pressure relief valve and drain valve are opened until the water flowing from the unit is clear and free of sediment.
• Check for Leaks: The unit is inspected to determine if there are any water leaks. Most of the time, a leak originates from a faulty water supply connection, which may require a compression fitting or a new pipe installed. If water is dripping from the temperature and pressure relief valve discharge pipe, you may need a thermal expansion tank. However, water heater tank leaks often require replacing the entire unit.
• Test the Thermostat: With the power turned off, a technician uses a multimeter to test the upper thermostat and then the lower thermostat. Both thermostats should show the same readings; otherwise, there is a problem. Modern water heaters may have an electronic or bulb-type safety thermostat. Our contractors are familiar with how to test and, if necessary, replace them.

• Fewer Repairs: If your system is well-maintained, it’s less likely to need major repairs. But without maintenance, it may require frequent service calls. Tank flushes, adjustments, and small repairs prevent strain that can lead to costly damage.
• Increased Energy Efficiency: Tuning up your water heater allows it to provide the same amount of hot water at the same temperature while consuming less energy. The overall efficiency of your plumbing system can also be improved.
• Reduced Water Bill: A well-maintained water heater will produce hot water much faster, reducing the amount of water you use and thus lowering your water bill. Addressing sediment buildup also enables the system to work more efficiently.
• Longer Lifespan: Without maintenance, your water heater may make it to 10 years at most. However, regular inspections and tune-ups can extend that to 15 years or more, delaying the need to invest in water heater replacement.

Your water heater is one of the most heavily used appliances in your plumbing system. Our maintenance professionals specialize in inspecting, flushing, and tuning up any type or model. An annual water heater flush is included in our X Protection Plan. From competitive pricing to a comprehensive water heater maintenance checklist, we guarantee high-quality service and your satisfaction. To schedule water heater maintenance or request emergency repairs or other plumbing services, call us today at (888) 301-6788.