It is very important to check your water heater about every 6 months, preferably at the beginning and end of the winter months. Colder water coming into the home during those months forces your water heater to work harder. Check all of the following on your home's water heater:
• Your water heater’s age -- The first four digits of the serial number indicate the month and year of manufacture. You should consider replacing your water heater if it is more than 15 years old.
• The condition of the tank -- You should consider replacing the water heater if there are signs of rust on the outside of the tank. This may be a sign that the tank is compromised. It could rupture soon causing water damage to your home.
• The setting on the thermostat -- it should be set to 120°F to reduce the risk of scalding,
lower your energy use, and minimize the potential for damage to the tank from overheating.
• The temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P) at the top of the heater If it is dripping, it may need to be replaced.
• Check that your water heater has an expansion tank and that it is not leaking. The expansion tank is a safety device into which water flows when the pressure in your water heater tank builds up too high. Without an expansion tank to absorb this extra pressure, your water heater could rupture. Note: Some older water heaters do not have expansion tanks. Instead, they have a Pressure Relief Valve (PRV). Test the PRV by lifting up on the lever and letting it snap back. The PRV should allow a burst of hot water into the drainpipe. If it does not, then you need a new PRV. (WARNING: Water Released From the Valve will be VERY Hot).
• Drain a few gallons of water from the bottom of the tank to remove any sediment that has been
building up, as sediment can cause corrosion and reduce heating efficiency. Connect a hose to the drain or faucet near the bottom of the tank and then open the faucet. (WARNING: Water From the Drain will be VERY Hot. Drain It In To A Bathtub or Sink. Do Not Drain It Outside As The Hot
Water Will Kill Any Grass And Plants That It Reaches. Do Not Let It Drain In To A Toilet As The Hot Water Can Crack a Toilet Bowl.
• Some of the newer models of gas water heaters must be cleaned every six months by running a vacuum sweeper around the air intake area to prevent dust from building up. If dust does build up, the pilot light may not stay lit and you may eventually need to have the entire burner assembly replaced.
When to Call a Plumber
Once a water heater starts to leak from the tank, it cannot be repaired and must be replaced. Call Service Now Plumbing in the San Francisco area for a licensed, professional plumber to do this for you. While you are waiting for your plumber to arrive you can prevent more damage to your home by shutting the water off using the valve on the top of the heater. If you feel comfortable doing so, you can also drain the rest of the water out of the tank by attaching a hose to the drain line at the bottom of the tank. REMEMBER, this water could be VERY hot. If your are in any daught of what to do, wait for the service technician to arrive.
For More Information Call: (415) 683-6021 or Visit: www.sanfranciscoplumber.com
