Regular water heater maintenance can extend the longevity of your water heater. Your water heater is usually the most neglected appliance in your home. Yes, I said it is one of your home appliances and most people don’t take notice of it until it stops working. If you perform some preventive maintenance on it a couple times a year, you can expect your water heater to last 12-15 years. Keep the thermostat adjusted to 120 degrees. Drain about a quarter of the tank a few times a year to remove sediment and debris. Annually test the temperature-pressure relief valve by quickly discharging it two or three times. Insulate older units with a fiberglass jacket you can purchase at a hardware store. When you are going to be gone for a while set it on “vacation” setting, which maintains the pilot light without heating the water. Examine the anode rod every couple of years. If you have any questions, feel free to contact De Hart Plumbing at 785-341-4193. De Hart Plumbing, serving Manhattan
Kansas, Junction City Kansas and Wamego Kansas.
