The lifespan of your hot water system is affected by how you use and maintain that system. This article discusses some of the things that you can do to ensure that your hot water heater lasts as long as possible before you have to replace it.
Install an Expansion Tank
Many hot water systems are closed systems. Such systems have valves that prevent water from reversing direction when a lot of pressure builds up inside the hot water system. An expansion tank creates an avenue for the added volume of water to escape when heated water expands. This ensures that your hot water system components will not be subjected to the added pressure caused by the expansion of heated water. The system will last longer due to this reduced stress on its components.
Use Water Softeners
Some areas have water that has a lot of dissolved minerals in it. These minerals precipitate and form deposits at the bottom of the hot water tanks. That sediment can shorten the service life of the hot water heater because heat will not be easily transferred from the heating elements to the water in the tank. That trapped heat will, therefore, cause the heater to age quickly. Installing a water softening system gets rid of those dissolved minerals before they reach the hot water heater. Its lifespan will therefore increase.
Get a PRV
Some municipalities have water flowing at high pressures. High water pressure is also possible in homes that rely on well or borehole water. As already mentioned, the high pressure reduces the expected life of hot water heater systems. A pressure regulating valve (PRV) can help to keep the water pressure within the safe range. An expansion tank is a must if you install a PRV.
Add Another Anode
Have you ever noticed that new hot water heaters with two anode rods have longer warranties than those with only one anode? Such discrepancies could be due to the better protection that is offered to hot water tanks by the two anodes. The steel tank will be protected from corrosion by the sacrificial anode which wastes away so that the steel can remain intact. Installing an extra anode, therefore, will have a beneficial impact on the longevity of your hot water system.
As you can see, you can do several things to ensure that your investment in a hot water system lasts for a long time. Implement the measures above and call a plumber for help each time you notice a problem with your hot water system. That professional will inspect it and fix any problems found before they cause irreparable damage to your hot water heater.
Contact a local hot water service for more information and assistance.
