Your water heater is an investment in comfort. But in the same way your car is an investment that depreciates over time, so too is your water heater. Average daily use wears on a water heater and can lead to rust and any number of costly problems: leaks, mechanical malfunctions, corrosion, and more. And also like a car, fixing these wear-and-tear issues as they appear is the key to a long and fruitful life for the product.
Anode Rods
Being made out of metal, rust and general corrosion are constant threats for water heaters. You can do your best to delay the inevitable with glass insulation, but the corrosion arrives all the same.
The absolute best way to protect your water heater from corrosion and rust damage is to stay on top of the anode rods; the small metal devices within the heater. These innocuous but ingenious devices attract magnesium and calcium from the water and away from your heater. These “sacrificial rods” as they’re sometimes called, take the brunt of the corrosion damage, but as a result, need to be replaced every six months to remain effective. Ask your water heater professionals about rod replacement.
Corrosive Materials
What most people don’t realize is that because water heaters use the surrounding air, any contaminants in the air can damage your hardware. Bleach fumes, in particular, are infamous for getting into water heaters, causing corrosion and premature leaks. Making sure your water heater is in a safe, dry area is a simple and easy way to ensure it stays away from corrosion-causing fumes.
Sediment Buildup
As a water heater operates, it gradually builds up a small layer of sediment on the bottom of the heater. This layer hinders the performance of the water heater and breaks it down from the inside out. Even worse, this sediment can give rise to the dangerous bacteria Legionella, as the water cannot get hot enough to neutralize it.
Thankfully, there’s a fairly easy way to prevent and stop this issue. Regular maintenance and flushing of your water heater can detect and eliminate sediment build up.
Improper Sizes
When dealing with water heaters, size matters. Systems too big or too small will fail to properly heat your home’s water and may even cause damage. Even a properly sized heater can be damaged over time if maintenance is neglected over time.
Is it time for you to call in backup? Call Payless today! Payless Water Heaters has been servicing Southern California home and business owners for over 30 years, and have installed upwards of 100,000 individual units. We take pride in every facet of our work, and we’re willing to stand by our quality team, work, and products. To learn more about how we can help you with your next water heater service or installation, give us a call at 866.615.4008 or contact us here!
