As you pack away those winter coats and enjoy the warmer weather, take a moment to check if your water heater is ready for the months ahead. A long winter of heavy use can affect its performance, and a quick inspection now can help you avoid unexpected surprises. Here’s how to tell if your water heater is in good shape for spring.
Check for Leaks
Cold temperatures can cause your pipes and heater components to expand and contract. In turn, that may lead to leaks. You will want to look around your water heater for any puddles or damp spots. Start at the base of the unit and check for moisture or small pools of water.
After that, inspect the pipe connections. If they are dry and free of rust, that is a good sign for the upcoming season. You may even want to look at the pressure relief valve. It should not be dripping or leaking. If everything is dry, your water heater is holding up well.
Monitor Your Water Temperature
Your water heater should deliver hot water on a consistent basis. If your showers have been cooler than usual or it takes a long time to heat up, your system may be struggling. You can test a few different faucets in your home and see if the water reaches a steady, warm temperature. If it heats up quickly and stays consistent, your water heater is likely working as expected.
Listen for Strange Noises
A healthy water heater should operate quietly. Sometimes, you may hear gentle humming. However, loud popping, banging, or rumbling sounds could indicate an issue. You may want to stand near the unit while it is running and listen for any noises. If it’s operating without excessive sounds, it is likely in good condition for spring.
Check Water Clarity and Odor
Hot water should be clear and free of unusual smells. You can check by filling a glass with hot water and inspecting it under the lights. If the water is clear and odor-free, your system is performing well. Any rust-colored water, cloudiness, or metallic smells may indicate potential problems.
Review Your Energy Bills
Your water heater should run without unexpected spikes in energy usage. Take out your latest energy bills from the previous months to compare them with your current costs. If your household’s water usage has not changed but your energy costs are rising, your system may be working harder than usual. This could be a concern as you move into the spring.
Test Water Pressure
Your water heater should provide consistent water pressure throughout your home. You can check by turning on a hot water faucet and observing the flow. Your system is likely in good shape if the pressure is strong and steady. Weak or inconsistent pressure may indicate an underlying issue.
Check the Age of Your Water Heater
Water heaters last eight to 12 years. If your unit is within this range but still heating efficiently with no leaks, it should be in good condition for another season. However, if you’re unsure about the age of your system, you can check the manufacturer’s label on the unit.
Inspect the Pilot Light
Gas water heaters should have a steady blue pilot light. If you have a gas unit, take a moment to check the flame. A strong blue flame means your heater is running efficiently. If the flame is flickering or yellow, your system may not be burning fuel. With this issue, you may want to call a plumber to inspect the unit.
When in Doubt, Schedule Maintenance
If you’re unsure about the condition of your water heater, scheduling a professional maintenance check is a good idea. A seasonal tune-up can help ensure your system is running at peak efficiency. During this time, a plumber can identify any potential concerns. All this can go a long way to extend the water heater’s life span. Plus, they can verify that your system is operating safely. Regular maintenance can also improve energy efficiency and help prevent unexpected breakdowns. With that, you will not have any surprises in the spring.
If you are looking for a company to inspect, maintain, or repair your water heater, turn to the team at Infinity Heating and Air Conditioning in Atoka, TN. We can help make sure your tanked or tankless water heater delivers hot water throughout every season. Contact us today to schedule an in-home water heater maintenance appointment.
