As a new year begins, boost your odds of having fewer unexpected plumbing surprises during the coming year by taking care of your water heater. After all, this is a much-used appliance or fixture that often requires attention from a plumber in Lake Charles, LA, especially one from a reliable company like AllStar Plumbing.

Here is a water heater maintenance checklist to keep in mind for the start of the year:

Flush at Least Once a Year

This refers to the process of draining your water heater to remove sediment. It’s a routine maintenance step that should be done at least once a year to remove excess minerals and other materials that can contribute to rust, corrosion, and wear. A tankless water heater should be flushed annually as well since it has parts that come into contact with water.

Test the TPR Valve

The temperature-pressure-release (TPR) valve is important because it’s designed to open if your water heater’s pressure gets too high. Test it by shutting off the cold water supply valve and power to your water heater. Put a bucket under it and lift the valve’s tab. Let some water out and release it. The tab should automatically close. If it doesn’t, it needs to be replaced.

Adjust Temperature Settings

Reduce the need for water heater replacement sooner than what’s typical by keeping temperature settings properly adjusted. Water that’s too hot is unsafe, and it can damage various parts of your water heater. The recommended temperature for a hot water heater is around 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

From routine maintenance to water heater repair in Lake Charles, LA, and new installations, AllStar Plumbing has all your water heater needs covered. We can also help you with a professional inspection that includes a more detailed check of anode rods, wiring, connections, and other key parts.

Contact our team today for prompt, affordable water heater installation, replacement, maintenance, repair, or other related services.