Water heaters are pretty pricey to fix and replace. That is why prevention is always the best form of maintenance when it comes to taking care of your water heater in Lake Worth, FL. However, if you are having issues, call Able Plumbing and we will be more than happy to be of assistance. Give us a call today at (561) 582-1819 if you find yourself needing our services.
Know where your water heater is located
Not only should you know where it is, you should have clear access to it.
Know what type of water heater you have You should know whether it’s natural gas, electric or propane, or whether it’s a storage tank type or a tank-less type water heater. Also, write down the model number and serial number of your water heater. This is important for warranty purposes and usually one of the first questions a plumber or water heater repair company will ask.
Know how to turn off the water and fuel or power supply to your water heater This is a good idea in the event of an emergency or if your water heater is leaking or you smell gas. It’s also a good idea to know where your main gas shut off valve is or which breaker is used for the water heater. As for the water shutoff, most shut off valves are located above the water heater on the cold side piping. You should also locate your water shutoff valve coming into your home.
Clear area around water heater A gas fired unit needs a good supply of oxygen to burn the gas, but if a water heater is smothered and can’t get enough oxygen, it can affect the efficiency of the unit as well as cause damage to the burner chamber and other water heater parts. It can even cause carbon monoxide leaks. Also, if the unit starts to leak, you may not catch it as soon if the area is hidden from view. This has the potential to cause severe water damage and even waste energy as the water heater has to reheat the water more often. And finally, it is a fire hazard.
Drain or flush your water heater At least once a year, drain a few gallons out of your Lake Worth, FL water heater using the drain valve. Use either a 5-gallon bucket or a garden hose and run it to a place where the hot water will not cause damage. Do not drain it to your landscaping or lawn as hot water may kill the grass.
Complete an annual inspection Start with the top and check for any leaks or heavy corrosion on the pipes and valves.
If you have any emergencies, or just want more tips – or assistance – maintaining your water heater, give Able Plumbing a call. You can even stop by our store if you need to speak to someone in person. We are located at 218 South H Street; Lake Worth, FL 33460. We look forward to hearing back from you, soon.
