Evanston, Illinois, known for its historic architecture and beautiful lakefront views, is a great place to call home. However, maintaining an efficient water heater is essential for Evanston residents, especially during the cold winters. Unfortunately, even well-meaning homeowners make some common maintenance mistakes that can lead to inefficiencies, higher bills, and even unexpected repairs. Here are the top five water heater maintenance mistakes and how you can avoid them to keep your water heater running smoothly.
1. Neglecting Regular Flushing
- The Mistake: Over time, sediment builds up in the water heater tank, leading to inefficiencies and a shorter lifespan.
- How to Avoid It: Experts recommend flushing your water heater at least once a year. This helps remove any sediment and mineral buildup, which can cause corrosion and reduce heating efficiency.
- Why It Matters in Evanston: Evanston’s water supply, like many in the Midwest, contains minerals that can lead to sediment buildup faster than areas with softer water.
2. Ignoring the Anode Rod
- The Mistake: The anode rod is crucial for preventing rust and corrosion inside the tank. Ignoring its condition can lead to tank damage.
- How to Avoid It: Check the anode rod every 1-2 years. If it’s worn down, replace it to prevent rust from forming in the tank.
- Evanston Context: In older Evanston homes, water heaters are often in basements or tight spaces, which can make it easy to overlook the anode rod. Checking it regularly can save you from costly repairs down the road.
3. Setting the Temperature Too High
- The Mistake: Many people think a higher temperature setting provides faster hot water, but it can increase energy costs and wear out the water heater.
- How to Avoid It: Set your water heater’s temperature to around 120°F. This is energy efficient and safe, preventing scalding accidents.
- Local Insight: With Evanston’s chilly winters, it can be tempting to increase the water heater’s temperature. However, keeping it at 120°F provides a balance between comfort and efficiency.
4. Failing to Insulate the Heater and Pipes
- The Mistake: Exposed water heaters and pipes lose heat quickly, causing the system to work harder to maintain hot water.
- How to Avoid It: Use an insulating blanket for the water heater and insulate the pipes leading to and from it. This simple step helps the heater maintain temperature without additional energy.
- Why This Matters in Evanston: In winter, Evanston’s temperatures can drop significantly, making insulation even more important to avoid unnecessary energy loss and higher bills.
5. Not Scheduling Professional Maintenance
- The Mistake: While some maintenance can be DIY, skipping professional check-ups can lead to overlooked issues.
- How to Avoid It: Schedule a professional inspection annually. A plumber can identify any small issues before they become costly repairs, and ensure your system is operating safely and efficiently.
- Evanston Insight: For residents with older or historic homes in Evanston, professional maintenance can be especially beneficial. Many of these homes may have unique plumbing systems that require expert knowledge to maintain properly.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common water heater maintenance mistakes can help extend the life of your system, lower your energy bills, and ensure a steady supply of hot water year-round. Regular maintenance is particularly important for Evanston homeowners who want to keep their water heaters functioning at peak efficiency, especially during the cold months.
If you’re unsure about any aspect of water heater maintenance or simply want peace of mind, contact J Blanton Plumbing, your trusted plumber in Evanston. We can handle everything from routine check-ups to comprehensive repairs. Let us help you keep your water heater running smoothly—call us today to schedule your maintenance appointment!
