Your hot water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home. Without it, you can kiss hot showers and clean clothes goodbye. Since it plays such a big role in your home’s comfort and cleanliness, you should take the necessary steps needed to keep your water heater in good shape.

Here are a few tips you can use to maintain your water heater.

Test the Pressure Valve

One of the most important safety features on your water heater is the pressure valve. If the internal pressure of the tank gets too high, the valve will open to relieve the pressure and reduce any risk of danger. To ensure it’s working properly, you should test it regularly by turning off your unit and pulling the valve’s trigger.

If you don’t hear a slight rush of air and/or water, you will need to have the valve replaced.

Flush the Water Heater’s Tank

Over time, sediments build up at the bottom of your tank, which can lead to a pressure buildup and potential explosion. Every six months or so, drain your tank. Here’s how to do so:

Turn off the water heater’s power.
Turn off the cold water supply.
Connect a garden hose to the drain valve
Open the pressure valve and then open the drain valve
Allow the tank to completely drain and keep draining it until the water coming out is clear rather than brown or discolored.
Close the drain and pressure valves and turn on the hot water faucets throughout your home.
Once water starts to flow out of those faucets, turn them off.
Restore the power to your water heater.

In addition to these DIY tasks, proper professional maintenance is essential to keeping your hot water heater in good shape. For all your water heater needs near Orlando and Kissimmee, give the experts at Ace Solves It All a call!