How Winter Can Harm Your Water Heater: Tips to Keep it in Good Shape

Winter may be a season filled with holiday cheer and snow activities, but it's also a time when many home appliances suffer from damage. As winter arrives, it's essential to ensure that your water heater is protected and well-maintained to prevent costly repairs. Read on to discover the many ways winter can harm your water heater and the steps you can take to keep it in good shape.

Sediment Build-up
During winter, the water running through your heater is colder compared to other seasons. As a result, sediment, such as debris, minerals, and sand, settles in the bottom of the water heater tank. Sediment build-up causes the heating element to work harder, reducing the water heater's efficiency and could potentially cause leaks. It's imperative to flush your water heater to remove sediments and debris before winter and maintain a cleaning schedule to prevent this problem.

Frozen Pipes
Dropping temperatures could cause water inside the heater and pipes to freeze, potentially causing damage. A frozen pipe could burst, leading to water leaks or bursting of the heater itself. To avoid this situation, ensure that your pipes and heater tank are insulated according to the manufacturer's instructions. During extreme temperature drops, keep the cabinet or closet door where the water heater is located open to ensure the warm air circulates around it to prevent freezing.

Pressure Relief Valve Malfunctions
During winter, a heater's pressure relief valve could malfunction due to the drop in temperatures. When temperatures drop and the valve sticks, the excess pressure won't be released, causing the tank to overheat and eventually fail. Schedule a professional maintenance appointment to inspect the valve and ensure its proper functioning.

Wear and Tear
Older water heaters tend to deteriorate naturally. The drop in temperature, combined with wear and tear, could cause leaks and damage to different parts of the heater. If your water heater is more than ten years old, consider upgrading to a new model that is energy-efficient and has a longer lifespan.

Lack of Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your water heater is crucial to prevent damage during winter. Neglecting your heater may result in inefficiencies, malfunction, and the need for costly repairs. Professional maintenance ensures that all parts are in good condition, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns.

Don't let winter be detrimental to your water heater's functionality. It's critical to take preventive measures so that you don't wake up to icy showers or those dreaded leaks in the wee hours of the morning. Follow the tips discussed in this blog to prevent winter damage to your water heater. However, if you encounter any issues with your water heater, don't hesitate to contact a professional water heater repair service. They'll assess damages, perform necessary maintenance, and repair any issues before they worsen.

For more information, contact a company that has services such as water heater repair