Water heaters are appliances that should last a long time. However, their longevity depends on how well you take care of them. With that being said, the team at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas wants to share ways to keep your water heater running efficiently. These are easy, painless steps that help you get the most out of your water heater.
Why Efficiency Matters in North Dallas
Your water heater is one of the biggest energy users in your home. When it runs inefficiently, you pay for it twice: once on your utility bills and again when the unit wears out early. North Texas adds a few challenges of its own. Our hard water carries calcium and magnesium that settle in the bottom of the tank as sediment. Many homes keep water heaters in garages or attics, where summer heat and winter cold affect how hard the unit works. A little regular attention goes a long way.
Keep an Eye on Your Water Heater’s Temperature
In more ways than one, the temperature setting of your water heater makes a difference to its long-term health, and it also affects your energy costs. Many homes are fine at a setting of around 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough for everyday use while lowering the risk of scalding. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, every 10 degrees you lower the temperature can save roughly 3 to 5 percent on water heating costs. That adds up!
If you’re going out of town this summer, turn your water heater’s thermostat to the “vacation” setting, which keeps the pilot light on without heating the water to full temperature. Additionally, test the temperature and pressure relief valve once a year. When you lift the lever, water should flow out of the discharge pipe and stop when you release it. Be careful, because that water will be very hot. If the valve keeps dripping afterward or won’t open, have it checked.
Drain the Water Heater Tank and Check the Anode Rod
At the bottom of the water heater, sediment and debris build up over time. In our hard water region, that buildup can happen faster than in other parts of the country. Sediment acts like a layer of insulation between the burner and the water, so the heater has to work harder and longer to do its job. It can also cause rumbling or popping sounds and shorten the life of the tank.
At least once a year, flush the tank to clear out debris. Here’s a basic approach:
- Turn the gas control to “off” or “pilot,” or switch off the breaker for an electric unit.
- Shut off the cold water supply valve to the heater.
- Attach a garden hose to the drain valve and run it to a floor drain or outdoors where hot water won’t harm anyone or anything.
- Open a hot water faucet somewhere in the house to let air into the system.
- Open the drain valve and let the water run until it comes out clear. If a quarter of the tank has drained and you still see debris, keep going.
- Close the drain valve, turn the cold water back on, and let the tank fill completely before restoring power or gas.
If the drain valve is old plastic, stiff, or won’t close fully, stop and call a plumber rather than forcing it.
A crucial part of the water heater is the anode rod. This piece attracts corrosion so the tank itself doesn’t rust from the inside. To keep it and the heater in top shape, examine the anode rod every three years. If the rod is less than half an inch thick, is coated in calcium, or has more than six inches of steel core wire exposed, it’s time to replace it. Replacing an anode rod is an inexpensive fix that handy homeowners can sometimes perform themselves, though the rod can be very tight and overhead clearance can be limited.
More Ways to Improve Water Heater Efficiency
- Insulate hot water pipes: Foam pipe sleeves on exposed hot water lines reduce heat loss, especially in garages and attics.
- Keep the area clear: Gas water heaters need a clear air supply, and clutter around any water heater makes leaks harder to spot.
- Fix dripping faucets: A leaking hot water faucet wastes both water and the energy used to heat it.
- Use efficient fixtures: Low-flow showerheads and efficient appliances reduce the amount of hot water your home needs.
- Consider a water softener: Reducing hard water minerals slows sediment buildup and helps protect the tank.
- Check the expansion tank: If your home has one, a failing expansion tank can put extra stress on the water heater and relief valve.
Warning Signs Your Water Heater Is Losing Efficiency
Pay attention to these signs that your water heater needs attention:
- Hot water runs out faster than it used to
- Rumbling, popping, or crackling noises from the tank
- Rusty or cloudy hot water
- Water heating costs climbing without a change in your habits
- Moisture, rust, or puddles around the base of the tank
- A pilot light that keeps going out
Repair or Replace?
Most tank water heaters last roughly 10 to 15 years. If yours is in that range and showing several warning signs, replacement may be more practical than repeated repairs. A leaking tank, in particular, usually can’t be repaired and should be replaced before it fails completely. A licensed plumber can help you weigh repair against replacement and explain whether a high-efficiency tank or tankless model makes sense for your home.
When to Call a Professional
Annual professional maintenance is a smart way to keep your water heater efficient and safe. A plumber can flush the tank thoroughly, inspect the anode rod, test the relief valve, check gas connections and venting, and catch small problems early. Call a pro right away if you smell gas, see water leaking from the tank, or notice signs of scorching or soot near the burner.
We Can Handle Any Water Heater Issues at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas
At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas, we can handle any installation, maintenance, and repair job you need for your water heater. Our licensed plumbers provide upfront pricing, and we’re available 24/7 for emergency plumbing services in Frisco, Plano, The Colony, Little Elm, and across North Dallas. Contact us anytime!
