If you live in an area that experiences frigid winters and sweltering summers, your hot water system could be used all year round. Over time, this can take its toll on your plumbing system and cause it to function less efficiently than it did when it was new. Maintaining your hot water system will prolong its life and make sure it’s ready when you need it most. Here are five ways to maintain your hot water system for optimal performance.
1) Check Faucets
One of the best ways to make sure your hot water system is ready for a long life is to check your faucets. Leaks or drips can sometimes go unnoticed, leading to huge losses in energy over time and even further leaks. Make sure all of your valves are turned off properly and that no drips can be heard by placing a glass under each tap. If any dripping sound is noticeable, turn off the valves until everything stops moving.
2) Get A Plumber
If your hot water system is more than 10 years old, or if you notice any problems with it, be sure to get it checked out right away. The cost of maintaining a reliable hot water system is much less than replacing it when it breaks down. A plumber can help you maintain your hot water system so that it works properly and efficiently for many years to come.
3) Check The Thermostat
High water temperature can be damaging to both your wallet and your health. In fact, high temperatures cost U.S. households a combined $100 million annually in wasted energy costs – not to mention, there’s an increased risk of scalding for young children and elderly adults.
4) Consider Installing a New Heater
Although it might be tempting to put off buying a new heater until your current one has reached its end of life, doing so could end up costing you in more ways than one. For example, if your water heater is older than 10 years, you could end up paying $1,500 per year or more on energy costs alone. Instead of waiting until your water heater needs replacing—or worse, breaks down completely—talk to a professional today about how much money you can save by investing in a high-efficiency model. If you choose to go with a tankless system instead of conventional tanked hot water heaters, installation costs may be slightly higher but long-term savings are substantial due to better overall efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Consider checking out Rheem hot water systems prices at 1st Choice Hot Water.
5) Never Overuse the System
One of the easiest ways to make sure you don’t need to call for a service professional for your hot water system is by using it wisely. If you turn on both your hot and cold-water faucets at once, you could cause damage to the water heater. When it comes to showers, try taking shorter ones; some experts say that eight minutes is sufficient.
