Why Regular Water Heater Maintenance Matters: Advice from an Arlington Plumber

Howdy, Arlington! I’m Eugene, your local plumber with over 13 years of experience keeping our community’s plumbing in top shape. Just like fine-tuning your favorite pro wrestling move or mastering the grill for a Cowboys tailgate, your water heater needs regular maintenance to perform its best. Here are eight compelling reasons why flushing and maintaining your water heater should be on your to-do list:

Think of your water heater as a durable pro-wrestler—they need proper care to stay in the game. Regular maintenance removes sediment buildup, which can otherwise lead to premature aging and costly repairs.

Arlington’s water can be as robust as a Cowboys defensive line, but it often carries minerals that settle in your water heater. Flushing removes these deposits, giving you cleaner, fresher water for drinking, bathing, and cooking.

Sediment buildup acts like a clogged grill grate—it slows down the heat transfer process. Flushing your water heater clears the way for efficient operation, reducing energy consumption and lowering your utility bills.

Just like a well-executed play on the football field, your water heater should deliver consistent hot water. Sediment buildup can throw off this balance, causing fluctuations in temperature. Regular maintenance keeps your heater performing reliably day in and day out.

Arlington’s climate can be tough on water heaters, much like a fiery barbecue pit. Sediment buildup can lead to corrosion inside the tank. Flushing helps remove corrosive elements, protecting your investment from leaks and breakdowns.

Over time, sediment can create unpleasant odors in your water heater, akin to a smoky grill gone wrong. Flushing eliminates these odors, ensuring your hot water smells fresh and clean.

A noisy water heater is like a rowdy crowd—it can be disruptive! Sediment buildup can cause popping or banging sounds as the heater operates. Flushing reduces these noises, creating a quieter home environment.

Regular maintenance, including flushing, is often required to keep your water heater’s warranty valid. This ensures you’re covered in case of unexpected repairs or replacements.

Flushing your water heater is something that Arlington homeowners can do themselves with these steps:

1. Turn Off the Water Heater:
For electric heaters, turn off the power at the breaker box. For gas heaters, set the thermostat to the pilot setting.

2. Turn Off the Cold Water Supply:
Locate the cold water inlet valve near the top of the water heater and shut it off.

 3. Attach a Hose:
Connect a garden hose to the drain valve located near the bottom of the water heater. Direct the other end of the hose to a suitable drain or outside area.

 4. Drain the Tank:
Open the drain valve and allow the tank to drain completely. Be cautious as the water will be hot.

 5. Flush with Cold Water:
Once the tank is empty, turn on the cold water supply to flush out any remaining sediment. Keep the drain valve open until the water runs clear.

 6. Close the Drain Valve:
Shut the drain valve once the water runs clear and remove the hose.

 7. Restart the Water Heater:
Turn the water heater back on (restore power for electric or reset the gas valve to normal operation for gas heaters) and allow it to refill and heat up.

Here’s some more detailed information on flushing water heaters: https://www.aaa-auger.com/procedure-and-maintenance-guidlines/water-heater-flushing-procedure/

I love to tell it like it is, and regular maintenance of your water heater is essential for its longevity, efficiency, and your peace of mind. For Arlington residents seeking help for water heater maintenance or how to flush a water heater, me and my buddies at AAA AUGER Plumbing Services are here to help. You can easily reach us by visiting https://www.aaa-auger.com/arlington-plumber/

With our expertise and commitment to exceptional service over the past three generations, you can trust us to keep your water heater performing at its best. Contact us today for all your plumbing needs and enjoy reliable hot water year-round! Tell ‘em Eugene sent ya!!