Winter brings unique challenges to homeowners in Tacoma, Washington, especially when it comes to keeping water heaters in top shape. With temperatures dipping and water heaters working overtime, ensuring your system is well-maintained becomes essential for consistent hot water.
RossCo Service Plumbers is here to share key winter maintenance tips to help you avoid unexpected breakdowns, reduce energy costs, and keep your home warm all season. Plus, if you need maintenance plumbers to handle professional care or install a new heater, we’re just a call away!
How Cold Weather Impacts Your Water Heater
When winter settles in Tacoma, your water heater must work harder to warm colder water, putting extra strain on the system. This added strain can cause more rapid wear, decreased efficiency, and higher energy expenses.
Preventative care is the best way to avoid these issues, extend your water heater’s lifespan, and keep it performing at its best. If you’re unsure where to start, our team specializes in water heater installation in Tacoma and replacement to meet your every need.
Essential Winter Water Heater Maintenance Tips
Here’s a list of expert-recommended maintenance steps you can take to keep your water heater winter-ready:
1. Flush the Tank Regularly
Over time, sediment accumulates in the water heater tank, reducing efficiency and speeding up corrosion. Flushing the tank annually—ideally just before winter—helps remove these deposits.
This improves water quality, boosts performance, and extends the heater’s life. If you’re unfamiliar with flushing or need assistance, our maintenance plumbers can take care of this for you.
2. Inspect and Replace the Anode Rod
The anode rod is essential to your water heater’s function. It attracts corrosive particles that would otherwise damage the tank. If left unchecked, a corroded rod could lead to tank leaks and costly repairs.
We advise checking the anode rod every three to five years and replacing it if there are significant signs of corrosion. Our plumbers can efficiently handle this task, ensuring your water heater remains protected from rust.
3. Keep Temperature Settings in Check
During winter, it’s tempting to increase your water heater’s temperature. However, setting it to a maximum of 120°F (49°C) helps maintain efficiency without overloading the system.
This temperature is warm enough for most household needs and helps reduce energy costs. Our team can assist with temperature adjustments to ensure optimal performance.
4. Test the Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve is an essential safety component that releases water when the tank pressure rises excessively. Annually testing this valve is crucial, as a faulty valve could cause a hazardous pressure buildup.
If the valve is stuck or faulty, our experts at RossCo Service Plumbers can replace it quickly to keep your system safe and functional.
5. Insulate Pipes and the Heater
Insulating pipes and the water heater tank is a valuable step in Tacoma’s cold winters. This insulation helps reduce heat loss, minimizes the risk of pipes freezing, and lowers energy consumption.
We offer insulation services to help improve your water heater’s efficiency and keep hot water flowing smoothly all season.
6. Conduct a Quick System Checkup
A quick system checkup can give you insight into your water heater’s health. Monitor how fast it provides hot water and whether it meets your household’s demand.
Slow heating or reduced output may indicate underlying issues. If you notice any signs of trouble, our maintenance plumbers are equipped to diagnose and resolve problems before they escalate.
Recognize the Warning Signs of Heater Trouble
Recognizing early signs of water heater issues enables you to address them before they escalate. Common indicators include strange noises, fluctuations in water temperature, or rust-colored water.
If you notice any of these symptoms, our team can provide a thorough assessment to decide if repairs or a water heater replacement is the best solution.
The Value of Preventative Maintenance for Your Heater
Preventative maintenance can prevent unexpected breakdowns and reduce heating costs during Tacoma’s colder months. A well-maintained heater runs more efficiently, which means lower energy bills and fewer repair needs.
Plus, regular care extends the heater’s lifespan, providing you with a more cost-effective solution in the long run.
Further Reading:
- Water Tank Installation & Repair: Finding the Right Plumber in Auburn
- Why Drain Cleaning Should Be Left to Tacoma Emergency Plumbers
Conclusion: Protect Your Heater This Winter with RossCo
When winter hits Tacoma, proactive water heater maintenance is your best defense against costly repairs and inconvenient breakdowns. Each step you take to care for your water heater—from flushing the tank to insulating pipes—contributes to smoother performance and long-term savings.
RossCo Service Plumbers’ expertise in water heater installation and replacement services means we’re always ready to keep your home warm and comfortable. Contact us today.
Keep your water heater reliable this season with the help of our skilled maintenance plumbers.
