Caring for Your Water Heater

Everything you need to know (but didn’t know to ask) about your water heater. 

Water heaters are one of the greatest home inventions ever created since the 19th century. Fun fact: before modern water heaters, many homes would heat their water by running exposed pipes through their kitchen stove burners. Luckily, in the modern era, we have tank and tankless water heater options that are far safer and much more energy-efficient, allowing us to take those hot and relaxing showers that we all know and love. 

While water heaters can be fairly expensive to install or replace, most units can last more than a decade with proper care and maintenance.  

Overview 

As mentioned, there are two types of water heaters: tankless and tank water heaters. Depending on your Holt home, you will have one of the two.

Tankless water heaters heat water on demand using an internal heat exchanger, whereas traditional tank heaters continually heat water within a large tank. Both types of heaters come with their own set of pros and cons, though both do a great job producing hot water.

Likewise, tank and tankless water heaters can be powered by gas or electricity. This means you’ll either have an electrical or gas shut-off for the unit. It’s smart to locate these shut-offs ahead of time, so you know how to cut power to the unit In the event of a water heater emergency.

Bear in mind; water heaters are not covered under any Holt Home warranties, though you can purchase coverage through 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty and can even find water heater troubleshooting tips on their website.

 

Know the Signs

Too much pressure inside tank water heaters can become an enormous safety hazard. While water heater explosions are extremely rare, knowing the signs can be life-saving. If you notice any of the following signs, evacuate everyone in your home and contact a professional immediately:

-Excessive water leaking from your pressure relief valve (usually located near the top)

-A rotten egg smell near your unit (for gas) or exposed wiring (for electric)

-A popping or knocking sound coming from inside   

Likewise, having a professional do a yearly water heater inspection can ensure your system is operating safely and give you peace of mind.

Maintenance

There are a handful of things you can do to enhance your water heater's efficiency and longevity. But before doing anything, check your manufacturer's manual for specific maintenance protocols to prevent voiding any existing warranties or causing damage to your unit. Here are some basic care guidelines for most water heaters found in Holt homes:

Filters

If you have a tank water heater, you’ll find a small filter on top of the unit that needs to be changed at least once per year. It’s very easy to do, and most units even come with a re-useable filter. All you have to do is gently remove it, rinse it off, let it dry, then put it right back in. Easy peasy!

Settings

Both types of water heaters come with a handful of settings and modes. It’s recommended to always have your water temperature set between 120℉ and 140℉. Any lower could cause bacterial build-up, and any higher could burn you. Therefore, it’s safest to operate within the advised range.

Your water heater also comes with a vacation or away mode if you expect to be out of your home for more than a few days. This setting safely lowers your water temperature to conserve energy. No sense in having hot water if no one is there to enjoy it! Just remember to turn it back to its normal setting as soon as you’re home to resume comfortable water temperatures.

Drainage

Draining your unit once every six months - or more if you have hard water - can boost the longevity of your water heater and help you catch any potential problems. Both units have similar draining procedures:

1. Turn off gas or electricity to your unit, along with the water heater’s thermostat and cold water supply.
2. Wait at least 2 hours for your water heater to cool down to prevent burning yourself. Once your unit is cooled, check for any leaks along your pipes or near the valves. If you notice any, contact a professional right away to inspect your unit for safety.
3. Turn on a hot water tap inside your house to help relieve pressure in your water heater, then inspect your Temperature and Pressure (T&P) release valve. Do this by lifting your T&P lever only part-way. Do not lift the valve all the way to prevent releasing too much pressure. You should hear a gurgling sound, or some water might come out. If nothing happens, immediately contact a professional to have it inspected, as this could be a sign the pressure is at unsafe levels.
4. If you hear a gurgling sound or water comes out, you’re good to go! Attach a hose to your water heater’s drain line, which resembles an outdoor spigot, and run the hose to an outdoor drain.
5. Once you have your hose set up, turn on all the hot water faucets in your house to help relieve pressure further. Take note; your taps might be running slower than usual. As your taps are running, open your water heaters drain valve, and allow the tank to empty. Let it run until you see only clear water coming out. This could take anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the size of your unit.
6. Once you see clean water, close your spigot and remove the hose. Then, turn off all the taps in your home and turn your electricity or gas back on.
7. Lastly, use your unit's electronic ignitor to re-light the pilot light, then turn your water heaters thermostat back to a safe temperature.
   

   Pro-Tip: Some tankless models benefit from flushing the machine with a manufacturer-approved solution after drainage. Be sure to check your manufacturer's manual for proper procedures.

   
   

be proactive

Taking care of your water heater is a crucial homeowner responsibility. With proper care, your unit can last for well over a decade, saving you likely thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Remember to always check your manufacturer manuals for specific guidelines to ensure you’re giving your machines the best care possible!

And, of course, if you ever have questions about your home, consult your 2-10 booklets or contact our customer care team at (360) 892-0514.

*All selections subject to change depending on availability