6 Mistakes That Could Be Causing You To Schedule Frequent Water Heater Repair | Oak Ridge, TN
Your water heater is one of the most important pieces of equipment in your home, and if it’s not working properly, you will be in for a world of trouble. Unfortunately, many people don’t even realize that there are things they’re doing wrong that could be causing their water heater to fail.
If your water heater is not performing as well as it used to, or if it has stopped working, it may be due to one of six mistakes homeowners often make. By learning what these mistakes are and how to avoid them, you can keep your unit running smoothly and free from regular water heater repairs for years to come.
Not Checking Your Water Heater’s Temperature Setting
One of the most common mistakes people make regarding their water heater is failing to check the temperature setting. Most water heaters have a default setting of 140 degrees, but this is often too high for many Oak Ridge, TN homes. Running your water heater at a higher temperature than necessary can put unnecessary strain on the unit, leading to premature failure.
If you’re unsure what temperature setting is best for your home, check with your water heater’s manufacturer or a qualified plumber. Making this simple adjustment could extend the life of your water heater and save you money on water heater repairs.
Turning On the Hot Water too Quickly
When you turn on the hot water in your home, do you wait a few seconds before using it? If not, you could be doing damage to your water heater. When you turn on the hot water, the heating element turns on and starts to heat the water. However, if there is already cold water in the pipes, this can cause the heating element to overheat and burn out, requiring water heater repair services.
To prevent this, you should slowly turn on the hot water, giving the heating element time to warm up gradually. You should also ensure that there is no cold water left in the pipes before turning on the hot water. By taking these precautions, you will save yourself from costly repairs.
Installing the Water Heater In an Unsuitable Location
Another mistake is installing their water heater in an unsuitable location. Installing the unit in the wrong location can cause overheating, leading to decreased efficiency and potential damage to the tank. Additionally, if the unit is located too close to a heat source, such as a furnace or stove, it can also be damaged by the high temperatures.
Another issue that can arise from a wrong installation location is condensation on the tank, which can eventually lead to rust and corrosion. As a result, it is important to ensure that your water heater is installed in a dry, well-ventilated area away from any heat sources. If you want to avoid repeated water heater repair costs, it is worth finding the perfect location for your unit. You should consult a qualified professional to ensure that your water heater is installed correctly and in the best possible location.
Failing to Flush the Tank
If you’ve had your water heater for a while, there’s a good chance that sediment has built up in the tank. Over time, sediment and minerals can build up in the bottom of the tank, leading to several problems. For example, the sediment can act as an insulator, causing the water in the tank to heat unevenly. This can put stress on the heating elements and shorten their lifespan.
In addition, sediment can also clog pipes and valves, making it difficult for water to flow freely through the system. As a result, it’s important to flush your water heater regularly to keep it running smoothly. This will also help extend your water heater’s life and prevent costly water heater repairs. Get a water heater professional in Oak Ridge, TN, to assist with this process.
Overloading the Water Heater with too Much Hot Water Demand
If you have a large family or often entertain guests, you may put too much strain on your water heater. While most water heaters are designed to meet the needs of a typical household, they can only handle so much hot water demand. Subjecting a water heater to demands beyond its capacity not only increases the likelihood of your water heater failing but can also lead to other problems, including decreased efficiency and increased energy costs.
If your water heater is struggling to keep up with your hot water needs, it may be time to upgrade to a larger unit. By doing this, you can avoid the inconvenience of having insufficient hot water as well as the cost of repairs. You may also consider installing a demand-type water heater, which only heats the water when needed. This can be a more expensive upfront investment, but it can save you money in the long run by preventing costly water heater repairs.
Ignoring Warning Signs
One of the most common mistakes people make is ignoring warning signs that their water heater is in trouble. For example, if you notice that your water heater is making strange noises or leaking, then this is a sign that something is wrong. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more serious problems, including the complete failure of the unit.
If you notice any problems with your water heater, it’s important to take action immediately. By addressing the issue right away, you can often prevent more serious damage from occurring. This can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly water heater repairs.
Don’t Rush the Last Minute – Take Care of Your Water Heater
Your water heater is an important part of your home, and it’s important to take care of it. By following these simple tips, you can avoid common mistakes leading to water heater failure. By taking good care of your water heater, you can extend its lifespan and avoid the cost of frequent water heater repairs. Ultimately, taking care of your water heater is a wise investment that can save you time and money.
We Can Help You with All Your Water Heater Needs
If you’re having problems with your water heater in Oak Ridge, TN, our team of experts at My Professional Plumber can help. We offer a wide range of water heater services, including water heater repair, installation, and maintenance. We can also help you choose the right water heater for your home and provide advice on how to care for it. Contact us today to learn more about our water heater services.
