It’s easy to forget about your water heater, especially if it is out of sight—isolated in your basement or tucked in your utility closet. However, like any appliance, it needs routine maintenance to ensure it’s safe for use. After all, it works with water, electricity, and high temperatures, meaning even a simple mishap can already compromise your safety. Keeley’s Plumbing, your go-to expert in water heater repair in Lombard, IL, shares helpful tips below:
Check the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
The temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve prevents your water heater from exploding if the water temperature is too high. You can get preemptive water heater services at least once a year so your technician can check the T&P valve and determine if it’s due for a replacement.
Keep it Properly Ventilated
First, ensure your water heater is properly ventilated. While the unit is in use, the fumes should be directed outdoors. With improper ventilation, the opposite occurs, which can pose health hazards to your household. Have a professional check if the vents for your water heater replacement are properly positioned.
Remove Fire Hazards
You can avert a potential disaster by keeping your water heater free of potential fire hazards nearby. If you have a gas-powered unit, move anything combustible away. This includes clothing, garbage, flammable liquids, and other materials that could suddenly ignite if they are too close to the pilot light of your water heater installation.
Check the Temperature
The ideal temperature for a traditional tank water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything beyond that could lead to scalding. On the other hand, lower temperatures can lead to the development of harmful bacteria. If you have a tankless water heater, the default setting might be 140 degrees, but you can reset it to 120.
Keeley’s Plumbing is a company you can depend on if you need help with your water heater. We’ll keep it in tip-top shape, so you can have peace of mind knowing that it won’t cause harm to you and your loved ones. Contact us today for an appointment.