You might be wondering if regular maintenance of your hot water system is really a necessary undertaking. The answer is yes! Proper and regular maintenance not only prevents sudden breakdowns but also improves the energy efficiency of your hot water system. By dedicating a bit of your time, you are already one step ahead in safeguarding your investment and ensuring an uninterrupted hot water supply.

Here are the key steps to maintain your hot water system for peak performance, efficiency, and peace of mind:

Regular Inspections

To avoid bigger issues and frequent breakdowns which in turn can result in bigger damages, you should check your hot water regularly. Frequently checking your hot water system is the foundation of effective hot water system maintenance. Conduct a brief visual inspection of every area of your hot water system, check for any damaged parts and ensure that everything is functioning well.

Once you notice any irregularity or damage on any components of your hot water system, you should contact your trusted plumbing specialist to repair it quickly before it goes out of hand.

Flushing the Tank

Rust, sediments, and mineral deposits can accumulate in the hot water tank over time, reducing its efficiency. Flushing or draining the tank at least once a year can significantly help remove impurities and enhance its performance.

Insulate the Pipes

Insulating your hot water pipes helps maintain the heat of the water as it travels from the heater to the taps and showers, reducing heat loss and energy wastage. This process not only optimises the system’s performance but also helps save on energy bills. 

Temperature and Pressure Maintenance

Setting your hot water’s temperature and pressure to the ideal setting is also necessary to maintain your hot water system in its pristine condition. Higher temperatures can lead to burning accidents while lower temperatures can stimulate bacterial growth. Check and adjust these settings properly to prevent safety hazards and ensure optimal performance.

Anode Rod Replacement

An anode rod has a vital role in your hot water system because it protects the water tank from accumulating rust. This rod draws corrosive elements in the water to itself, sparing the tank from rusting. Over time, the anode rod may deteriorate and require replacement, which is why it is a good practice to check its condition every year. Inspect the anode rod during your routine maintenance checks and contact your trusted professional plumber if it needs replacement.

Test the Pressure Relief Valve

The pressure relief valve is also one of the important components of your hot water system. The pressure relief valve releases excess pressure in the hot water tank to avoid explosions. Contact your plumbing contractor to test your pressure relief valve so that they will know exactly what to do if your pressure valve fails the test.

Professional Maintenance

While some of the simple hot water system maintenance can be done by property owners, it is necessary to reach out to your trusted plumbing contractor for annual inspections and comprehensive maintenance. Professional plumbers are equipped with the required tools, equipment, and expertise to diagnose and resolve hot water issues efficiently and effectively before they become costly problems.