You rely on your water heater to supply your home and family with a constant stream of warm and hot water. From washing your dishes to taking a shower, you use it for many things. You may not realize how much you rely on the heater until it goes out. Luckily for you, you can use some basic tips to keep the water heater in good shape and cut down on how often you need to reach out for help.

1. Flush the Tank

Do you find that your water heater produces water that feels a little colder than it should? Maybe your water pressure drops and you can’t figure out why. These problems are common when sediment builds up in the tank, but you can prevent it with a simple flush. You’ll need to turn it off to stop the flow of water and shut off the gas line if you have one. The water heater has a drain around the base where you attach a hose before opening the drain. Once the water is clear, the tank is free from sediment.

2. Change the Temperature

When you install a new water heater, the contractor will adjust the temperature. If the water comes out cooler than you would like, you can adjust it. This is an easy task because most have a temperature dial on the side with a cover. Take off the cover and turn the dial to the temperature you prefer. Not only can you crank the temperature up, but you can also turn it down by a few degrees, which will help you save money. Using a lower temperature may increase the life of the water heater because it reduces wear and tear, too.

3. Protect the Floor

Even a minor leak can do a lot of damage to the floor below your water heater. Water sealant is a great way to prevent damage. It comes in large cans and goes on smoothly. Using a drop cloth nearby protects other objects in the vicinity. You might find it helpful to let the first coat dry before you apply another one for added protection. Once dry, the surface becomes resistant to water.

4. Insulate the Heater

Another way to reduce wear and tear is with some insulation. Insulating the pipes as well as the water heater keeps the water warm as it moves through the lines. This reduces the work the heater needs to do to reach the right temperature. There are insulating blankets and pipe covers that are easy to install, but any contractor or plumber can also tackle the job.

While these easy tips go a long way toward preventing water heater damage, you may still need repairs. Stay safe and let the professionals handle those jobs. Call All-Out Plumbing in Albuquerque, NM at the first sign you have a water heater problem you can’t handle on your own.