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water heater maintenance

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Winter Maintenance

A reliable water heater is crucial during the winter months, but without proper maintenance, it can fail when you need it most. Here are key signs that your water heater may need servicing before the cold sets in.

Fluctuating Water Temperature

If your shower goes from hot to cold unexpectedly, sediment buildup in the tank could be affecting its efficiency. Flushing the tank helps remove debris and improve performance.

Rusty or Discolored Water

Rusty water from your hot tap can indicate corrosion inside your water heater tank, which may require replacing the anode rod or the entire unit if the damage is extensive.

Strange Noises

If your water heater makes popping or rumbling sounds, it could be due to hardened sediment at the bottom of the tank. This buildup forces your heater to work harder, increasing wear and tear.

Water Takes Too Long to Heat

A failing heating element or a buildup of minerals can reduce the efficiency of your water heater, making it take longer to provide hot water.

Leaks Around the Water Heater

Even a small leak can indicate a bigger issue, such as internal corrosion or a loose connection. Addressing leaks early can prevent costly water damage.

Winter Plumbing Myths Debunked: What You Really Need to Know

Don’t Fall for These Common Plumbing Misconceptions

Winter weather often leads to a flurry of plumbing advice, but not all of it is accurate. Let’s separate fact from fiction to help you protect your home.

Myth 1: Dripping Faucets Prevent Frozen Pipes
Truth: While a dripping faucet can reduce pressure in the system, it doesn’t fully prevent freezing. Insulating pipes is a more reliable method.

Myth 2: You Don’t Need to Worry About Outdoor Faucets Once Disconnected
Truth: Even with hoses removed, outdoor faucets can freeze. Install frost-proof spigots or cover them with insulated covers for added protection.

Myth 3: Water Heaters Don’t Need Attention in Winter
Truth: Water heaters work harder in cold months. Flushing sediment and inspecting the unit ensures it operates efficiently.

Myth 4: Boiling Water Always Clears Clogged Drains
Truth: In winter, cold pipes can cause fats and oils to harden, making boiling water ineffective. Use enzyme-based cleaners instead.

By knowing what advice to follow, you can avoid common winter plumbing pitfalls and keep your system running smoothly.

5 Water Heater Maintenance Tips That Can Save You Money

Putman and Sons Plumbing Water Heater Maintenance

A water heater is an essential part of any modern home. It can be expensive to replace. The best way to get your money’s worth is to keep it running at maximum capacity for as long as possible. The following tips will help you maintain your water heater.

  • Add Insulation to Save Energy

A fiberglass insulation jacket can help your water heater operate efficiently, especially if it is an older model. Insulation can reduce heat loss by as much as 45% which can translate to up to a 9% reduction on your water heating expenses.

  • Flush Sediment from the Tank

Your water heater tank should be drained at least once per year. If it’s a newer system, you may only need to drain a few gallons. Check the water for debris and sediment.

If you notice either, then you should do a full flush. To do this, turn the temperature down and empty the tank. Turn the water flow on while the drain is still open and let water flush it out for a minute or so to remove remaining sediment.

  • Test the Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve

Test your temperature-pressure relief valve once per year. This is done by discharging it a few times. Look for small leaks in the valve after testing.

  • Use Vacation Mode When Traveling

Vacation mode is available on gas water heater models. This setting will keep the pilot light burning without heating the water. Vacation mode should be used when you are away from home for an extended period of time.

  • Inspect Annually for Leaks & Corrosion

Perform an annual water heater inspection to look for leaks or corrosion on the tank, pipes, and in the general area of the appliance. Also, make sure nothing is being stored close to the water heater.

If you need an inspection, notice issues, or have questions, contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing. We are available to help customers throughout Southeast Michigan prolong the life of their water heaters and replace them when needed.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

Putman and Sons Plumbing Preventing Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are often a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Fortunately, there is a lot you can do as a homeowner to reduce the chance of your pipes freezing. Take time to address the following recommendations as temperature wind chills have dropped below freezing this winter already.

Proactive Measures

Take inventory of the uninsulated pipes in the unheated areas of your home. Heating uninhabitable areas is an inefficient use of energy; however, it is important for the pipes in these areas to be protected from extreme temperatures.

When indoor pipes are exposed to temperatures below freezing they can freeze within minutes and without any warning. To prevent this from happening, apply pipe insulation to every instance of vulnerable pipe. Special bend covers are available to cover non-linear sections. You should also be alert to pipes which run directly against exterior walls, even those within heated rooms. Temperature exchange between walls and pipes can occur rapidly.

Insulation is also useful for areas like attics, basements, and crawl spaces. By insulating these areas, your furnace will be able to function more efficiently and pipes naturally will remain warmer in the winter.

Keep your water heater maintained to make certain that it is fully operational this winter. Sending frigid water through extremely cold pipes is a recipe for disaster.

Need Help?

We help homeowners prepare for winter each year. To learn more about the services we offer please visit our website or contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing 24/7 hotline to schedule a visit from one of our certified master plumbers.

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