Essential Water Heater Maintenance Tips for the Winter Season

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Maintenance

By recognizing the need for water heater maintenance, you may be able to avoid costly water heater repairs or even a full replacement. Here are the signs to look out for:

1. Lukewarm Water

If you notice any of these signs, act quickly to avoid costly repairs and inconvenience during colder months.

2. Strange Noises

Hearing popping, rumbling, or banging sounds? These could be caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. When sediment is left to accumulate, it hardens over time and reduces efficiency.

3. Discolored or Rusty Water

If you notice a reddish tint in your water, it might indicate rust inside your water heater tank or pipes, which can compromise the system’s integrity.

4. Unpleasant Odors

If your hot water smells bad, especially a rotten egg smell, it could indicate the presence of bacteria in your tank. Luckily, Bradford White water heaters have a Vitraglas^® tank lining which includes Microban^® antibacterial technology, which helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew on the surface of the tank lining.

5. Increased Energy Bills

A sudden spike in energy usage could mean your water heater is working harder than it should. Addressing this issue promptly can prevent further inefficiency and save you money on future utility bills

If you spot any of these warning signs, don’t wait. Acting quickly can save you from costly problems and major inconvenience during the colder months.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Your Water Heater’s Life

Simple, routine maintenance as outlined in the installation and operation manual can improve the efficiency and longevity of your water heater. Your plumbing professional can perform this maintenance for you. Need a plumbing professional? Search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

1. Flush the Tank to Remove Sediment

Sediment buildup is one of the leading causes of water heater inefficiency. Your plumbing professional will drain your water heater and remove the sediment to allow your water heater to work properly and with the best possible efficiency.

This process helps maintain consistent water flow and prevents sediment from hardening inside the tank.

2. Check and Adjust the Temperature

Setting the right water temperature ensures both efficiency and your family’s safety. Your plumbing professional can make sure your water temperature is properly set to reduce the risk of scalding while helping you save on energy costs.

Traveling over the holidays? If your water heater has a “vacation mode” setting, you can use that to save energy while still protecting the system from freezing in the cold weather.

3. Inspect for Leaks or Loose Connections

Your plumbing professional will examine all visible pipes and connections for signs of leaks, and will tighten up any loose fittings. The contractor can also make sure there’s no corrosion or rust present, especially around your water heater’s valves.

4. Test the Pressure Relief Valve

The pressure relief valve helps regulate the pressure inside the tank and prevents it from overheating. Your plumbing professional will test it by lifting the lever and releasing some water; if nothing comes out, it might be faulty and should be replaced.

Annual Routine Maintenance:

The best option is to simply schedule routine maintenance every year, at which time your plumbing professional will take all of the above steps to keep your water heater working at peak performance and efficiency.

Why Annual Professional Maintenance Matters

Professional maintenance addresses issues you might overlook, such as internal checker inspections or advanced diagnostic tests. Regular servicing can also extend your water heater’s lifespan and protect you from costly emergency water heater repairs. By prolonging your water heater’s lifespan, annual maintenance may actually save you money over the long-term.

What to Expect During Professional Maintenance?

During a professional visit, contractors typically:

• Flush the system and remove sediment buildup.
• Inspect the tank and connections for signs of wear or corrosion.
• Test the pressure relief valve’s functionality.li>
• Assess the heating components for efficiency.
• Calibrate the thermostat for safety and accuracy.

Professional care ensures your water heater is ready to withstand heavy usage through the winter, and to work as efficiently as possible to help lower your energy costs.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades

If your current water heater is nearing the end of its life or isn’t meeting your efficiency goals, consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model.

Latest Energy-Efficient Technologies

• Tankless Water Heaters: These systems heat water on demand, eliminating the need for a storage tank and reducing standby energy loss. Check out Bradford White’s Infiniti^® and KwickShot^® tankless water heaters today.
• Heat Pump Water Heaters: These units use advanced technology to transfer heat from the air to heat water much more efficiently than standard electric water heaters. Learn more about the heat pump water heaters manufactured by Bradford White here.

Tips for a Smooth Upgrade

• Check for local rebates or incentives for upgrading to energy-efficient units. To see what rebates are available in your area, visit our Rebate Center.
• Consult a professional to ensure proper installation and compatibility with your household’s water usage needs. Search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.