3 Ways to Prolong the Lifespan of Your Water Heater

Your water heater works hard every day to provide hot water for your home, so it’s worth taking preventive steps to help it last as long as possible. Here are three ways to keep your water heater running efficiently for years:

1. Control water pressure. Excessive water pressure puts unnecessary strain on your water heater, so make sure your home has a functioning pressure regulator and keep it set at 80 PSI or lower. You can even install an expansion tank on your heater to absorb pressure fluctuations and relieve stress on its joints. Also, make sure the water heater’s T&P valve is working properly. This safety device opens when pressure spikes, which prevents potential damage.

2. Improve water quality. Hard water contains minerals that can corrode the inside of your water heater over time, so consider installing a water softener or filtration system. You should also pay attention to the anode rod inside the tank, which attracts corrosive elements so they don’t attack the tank itself. Have a plumber inspect the anode rod every few years and replace it when it’s heavily corroded.

3. Perform annual maintenance. Flush your water heater every 12 months to remove built-up sediment from the bottom of the tank. This simple step will improve efficiency and prevent internal damage caused by overheating sediment.