Guides & How-Tos, Tankless Water Heaters, Water Heaters
Water heaters are an essential part of California’s home comfort systems. In today’s blog we’ve created the essential California Water Heater Maintenance Guide full of helpful tips to help keep your water heater running efficiently and keep your water supply clean and warm. From regular inspections to full flushes and pressure relief valve checks, we’ve got you covered!
Here in California, we rely heavily on our water heaters for comfort, convenience and overall health. And regular maintenance is key to a long-lasting, efficient unit. So to help you keep your water heater running in top shape, we’ve created the essential California Water Heater Maintenance Guide full of helpful tips and tricks to help keep your water supply clean and warm. Let’s get started!
Understanding Your Water Heater
Before diving into maintenance, it’s important to be familiar with the type of water heater you have installed. The most common types in California are:
- Storage Tank Water Heaters – These are the more traditional models, with a tank that stores and heats water. They are also cost-effective to install.
- Tankless Water Heaters – Also known as on-demand heaters, these heat water directly without the use of a storage tank. They are more compact and efficient than their tanked counterparts, and allow for an endless supply of hot water, when and where you need it. They also have a longer lifespan than most traditional water heaters at 20 years, so you don’t have to worry about replacements for a long time!
Basic Water Heater Maintenance
Maintaining your water heater doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. The key is to make sure you’re scheduling or conducting your own water heater maintenance at least once a year to keep your water warm and clean.
Here a couple things you can do on your own as a homeowner:
- Regular Inspections – check for leaks, corrosion, or damage to the tank and pipes. If you have a tankless water heater, inspect the filters and clean as needed.
- Temperature Settings – ensure your tank is set to somewhere around 120°F. This prevents scalding, saves energy and helps keep all components working as they should.
Advanced Maintenance
For more advanced tune-ups, it’s best to call in the pros! Enter the knowledgeable team at Cencal Mechanical! Our specialized technicians have experience maintaining, installing and repairing a wide range of water heaters all over California.
When you schedule your water heater maintenance service we will:
- Conduct a pressure relief valve check – this handy little guy is a valve that relieves excess pressure in the tank of your water heater to keep it from bursting and flooding your home. When we check the valve we lift the valve’s handle and let it snapback. If it’s working properly, your technician will hear a gurgling sound as water is released into the drain tube. If not, a new valve is needed.
- Flush the tank – draining or flushing the tank is one of the most effective ways of clearing out any excess sediment that has accumulated in the tank that could hinder efficiency, damage the walls of the tank, and effect the quality of your water.
- Anode Rod Inspection – we’ll make sure the steel wire is free of calcium, and replace it if necessary so your tank remains rust-free!
Regular professional service from Cencal Mechanical, Heating & Air can extend the lifespan of your water heater, so schedule your tune-up today!
Common Water Heater Issues
Annual maintenance helps you identify common water heater issues quickly so they don’t turn into more expensive repairs. Potential issues include:
- Strange banging or gurgling noises coming from the tank.
- Leaks or standing water around your water heater.
- Pilot light won’t stay lit.
- Inconsistent water pressure and temperature.
- Your water is discolored or has a strange odor.
If you’re experiencing one or more of the above issues, give our friendly technicians a call today to schedule your water heater repair service.
Benefits of Regular Maintenance
Regular water heater maintenance doesn’t just keep you warm and cozy! Some other benefits include:
- Lower utility bills – a well maintained unit is more efficient and won’t have to struggle to meet the needs of your home, meaning the overall energy consumption is lower. Lower consumption means lower bills!
- Less frequent repairs – regular maintenance often catches small issues before they become bigger problems.
- Longer lifespan – Regular inspections and maintenance can extend the lifespan of your water heater by ensuring it’s functioning efficiently and all components are running as they should. Regular maintenance could be the difference between your water heater lasting 5 years, or 20 years.
California Water Quality and How it Can Effect Your Water Heater
Hard water is common in many areas around California and can lead to sediment build-up in your water heater. So it could also be helpful to install a whole-house water softener, to protect your heater and plumbing system.
Constant, Reliable Comfort All Year Round
The best way to ensure warm, clean water year round is by signing up for Cencal’s exclusive Home Comfort Memberships.
For a low monthly fee, you’ll get routine water heater maintenance, priority service, special discounts and maintain your unit’s warranty.
When you become a Cencal Mechanical Gold Member you can spend your time making memories with the ones you love, instead of worrying about home comfort. Contact us today to learn more!
Remember, regular, proactive water heater maintenance is vital for clean and warm water supply in your California home. By following this essential maintenance guide, you can ensure the longevity and efficiency of your water heater for years to come.
