Berkeys / Berkeys Blog

November 15, 2016

Water Heater For Dallas Homeowners

Few appliances seem less important when they operate properly, or create more of a stir when they fail, than home water heaters. That being the case, it’s important that you purchase the best unit you can and pay to have it installed properly by a reputable plumber. However, you may not be privy to the wide range of choices available to you when it comes to water heaters.

Do you really need water heater insulation, or is it not worth it?

Hot Water Heater Safety Do’s & Don’ts

DO

• Set hot water heater temperature below 120° F.
  
• Flush hot water heater through drain valve at least once a year to remove sediment build-up.
  
• Test safety relief valve once a year to ensure proper operation (this device protects the heater from over-pressurizing and from exceeding 210° F.)
  
• Keep the area around the hot water heater, clean and free of combustible and flammable material.
  
• When leaving for vacation, set hot water heater temperature at its lowest setting. This will save money and reduce the risk of any problems while you are away.
  
• Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for recommended maintenance schedule.
  
• Set the hot water temperature below 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
  
• Flush your hot water heater through the drain valve at least once a year to remove sediment build-up (by doing this, you are saving yourself from an early replacement).
  
• Test the safety relief at least once a year to ensure proper operation (This device protects the heater from over-pressurizing and from exceeding 210 degrees Fahrenheit).
  
• Keep the area around your hot water heater clean and free of flammable material.
  
• Set the hot water heater temperature at its lowest setting if you are leaving for a vacation. This will not only reduce the risks of any problems occurring while you are away, but it will also save you money.
  
• Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for recommended maintenance schedule (typically once a year).
  

DONT

• Set hot water heater temperature above 120° F.
  
• Keep combustible material or flammable material or flammable material within 18″ of the hot water heater.
  
• Never leave children unattended around a hot water heater.
  
• Set your water heater temperature above 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
  
• Keep the combustible material within 18 inches of the hot water heater.
  
• Leave children unattended around a hot water heater.
  
• Allow plaque and sediment to build up in your tank.
  
• Wait too long to call in for repairs, especially if you notice a leak
  
• Make contact with the flue when insulating older units with a fiberglass jacket to improve efficiency
  

Water Heater Tips

No matter which kind of heater you choose, remember that hot water costs money anyway you cut it. Conserve its use by not running hot water through faucets when it isn’t necessary, take shorter showers, wash clothes and dishes in cold water when possible, and turn down your hot water heater when you’re going to be gone for extended periods of time.