Don’t overlook your water heater when putting together your springtime checklist. When you take the time to clean the tank and check the parts, you are making sure your morning routine stays comfortable, and your utility bills stay low. The following are some easy tips for giving your water heater some TLC this spring.

Clean Out the Gritty Sediment

Flush out the mineral buildup that settles in your water heater over time. Water contains tiny bits of calcium and magnesium that can attach to the bottom of the tank. This layer of gunk acts like a brick wall between the heating element and the water. This makes the machine work twice as hard to get things hot.

You can fix this by attaching a garden hose to the drain valve and letting the water run until it looks clear. Once the tank is clear, the heater runs much more quietly. You might even notice that your water gets hot much faster than it did before.

Check the Anode Rod

Inside your water heater sits a long metal piece called an anode rod. Its only job is to rust so that your tank doesn’t have to. Over a few years, this rod gets eaten away until there is nothing left but a thin wire. Once it is gone, the tank itself starts to rust from the inside. During your spring cleaning, look at this rod to see if it needs a replacement.

If your hot water has a sulfuric smell, that is often a sign that the rod has reached the end of its life. Replacing a thirty-dollar rod today is a whole lot better than buying a brand-new thousand-dollar tank next year.

Testing the Safety Valve for Peace of Mind

Every water heater has a small lever on the side called the temperature and pressure relief valve. This is a vital safety part because it lets out extra pressure so that the tank stays stable and safe. You can test it by gently lifting the lever to see if a little bit of water spurts out into the discharge pipe. If no water comes out or if it keeps dripping after you close it, the valve is likely stuck with mineral crust and needs to be swapped for a new one.

Making your water heater part of your spring cleaning is one of the best ways to protect your home and your budget. It also feels even better to know that your hot showers are guaranteed for the months ahead. Call Preferred Plumbing Professionals in Topeka, KS today for all of your water heater needs.