Everything You Need To Know About Water Heater Flushing

How are you using any extra time you may have at home during the COVID-19 pandemic? Many homeowners are working to ensure that their homes are in prime condition. If this sounds like you, now is the time to consider getting a water heater flush from a professional plumber. This plumbing service is designed to keep harmful sediments out of your unit to protect your water heater and your home. Here is everything you need to know about water heater flushing, brought to you by the Raleigh plumbing experts of Newcomb and Company.

Water Heater Care and Considerations

Homeowners often make the mistake of considering their water heater an “out of sight, out of mind” appliance. It can be dangerous and expensive to forget about the maintenance needs of your water heater. Not only can this limit the lifespan of your unit, but it can also present risks to your home and everyone inside.

WATER HEATER LIFESPAN

When you skip your water heater care, you can negatively impact how effective your unit is and how long it functions. The average tank water heater lasts between 8-12 years. This number can be impacted by a variety of factors, including the water quality in your area, the climate you live in, the type of water heater you have, and the care you provide your unit. Not only does maintenance extend the lifespan of your unit, but it can also prevent a disastrous burst or leak in your system.

DANGERS OF SKIPPING WATER HEATER MAINTENANCE

The average hot water heater is set to 125° F, which can make direct contact with leaking water dangerous. A leaking water heater can also flood your home and cause serious damage. This is where preventative water heater maintenance comes in. It is important to consider annual water heater inspections from a licensed professional. This service will help an expert locate any rust, leaks, or issues with your valves, thermostat, anode rod, and other water heater components. During a service, your expert can also flush your water heater. So what is a water heater flushing and why is it so important?

What is a Hot Water Heater Flush?

As you might have guessed, a water heater flush involves draining all of the existing water from your tank and clearing out any lingering debris. Water contains lime and other natural sediments, which can begin to accumulate in your water heater tank. Sediments can harden and damage your system. They can also cause uneven heating and unit deterioration. Because water heaters can be fragile and dangerous when mismanaged, this service is often completed by a professional plumber during a water heater maintenance visit.

Do I Need a Water Heater Flush?

While you might hope to get by without a water heater flush, this oversight could cost you more long-term in water heater inefficiency, repair, damage, and early replacements. Here are some of the signs you need a water heater flush:

• You Rely on Well Water: Homes that use well water often have a higher percentage of water sediments, making them more prone to water heater damage.
• Your Water Heater is Located in the Attic: If your water heater is located in the attic, a leak or burst could wreak havoc on your home. For example, a burst attic unit could impose water damage on your home’s ceilings, walls, flooring, electrical system, lighting, and more. This makes necessary maintenance (like a water heater flush) even more essential.
• Your Water Heater is Ineffective or Inefficient: If you have noticed your water heater is not working as well as it used to, it could be sediment buildup negatively affecting your heating process. Sediments also may force your system to work harder to heat your water, which could cause a spike in both your electricity and water bills.
• You Have an Older Water Heater: f you are trying to make your water heater last as long as possible, a water heater flush can help you expand the life expectancy of your unit. However, it is important not to wait too long to schedule a water heater flush. If the water heater has never been flushed and is over 5 years old, the sediment buildup may be too extensive for a plumber to recommend this service.
• You Notice Early Signs of Unit Damage: If you see your unit starting to deteriorate or decline in function, a water heater flush can help you save your unit and prevent damage to your home.

If you are still wondering whether or not you need a water heater flush, contact a local plumber for insight. An expert can assess your unit and your home’s situation to determine whether or not you could benefit from this water heater service.

Water Heater Flush in Raleigh

When you are due for your next water heater flush, the Raleigh plumbers at Newcomb and Company have you covered. We are working hard to serve the plumbing needs of local residents while keeping our customers and employees safe. Our experts proudly serve homeowners in and beyond Raleigh, including those in Clayton, Knightdale, Garner, Cary, Durham, and beyond! Make an appointment today for your water heater flush from the plumbers at Newcomb and Company.