HOT WATER TANK MAINTENANCE

Hot water tanks are not out in the open where they are seen every day. Homeowners turn on the faucet, and they receive hot water. Hot water tanks are noticed, though, when individuals cannot get hot water out of the faucet or shower head. The water may not be hot enough or not hot at all. There can be several reasons why a hot water tanks no longer heats water. There is maintenance that can be performed on hot water tanks. Standing under a cold shower is not the time to find out the hot water tank no longer works.

Routine maintenance is essential for any tank whether it is gas or electric. Draining the tank to remove sediment should be on the maintenance list. To drain the hot water tank first shut off the gas or electricity. Open the pressure valve at the top of the tank to break the vacuum. The tank will not drain if there is a vacuum. Drain the tank by opening the valve at the bottom. Open both faucets at the kitchen sink to prevent an air lock. Turn the cold water supply back on, and turn the gas or electricity back on after the tank has filled. Heavy sediment in the tank will reduce the tank’s ability to heat water.

Hot water tanks have what is called an anode rod that hangs suspended down the middle of the tank. The rod attracts certain elements in the water that would otherwise deteriorate the tank’s metal shell. There are newer models tanks that are made of material, other than metal that will not have the anode rod. To replace or inspect the rod shut off the power or gas and the water supply. Unscrew the nut on top of the tank that holds the rod suspended. The rod may be covered in mineral deposits or partly deteriorated, if this is the case replace the rod.

Electric hot water tanks usually have two heating elements. Tanks that seem to run out of hot water faster may have an element not working. The elements are accessible through the two panels on the front of the tank. Shut off the power to the tank before opening the panels. The tank must be drained before changing the elements. Heating elements are relatively inexpensive, so it is economical to replace both at the same time. The individual installing the elements can adjust the thermostat while changing the elements. Homeowners when the tank seems to run out of hot water quicker sometimes turn the thermostat up to compensate. The temperature range should be between 120 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fix It Fast Plumbing Co is your full service Simi Valley Plumber servicing Simi Valley, CA and surrounding Areas. For more information visit us online at www.fixitfastplumbing.com Fix It Fast Plumbing Co 4565 Industrial St # 7L, Simi Valley, CA 93063 – (805) 623-4417.