Winter is a tough time of year for water heaters in Orange County. The cold weather can lead to increased demand for your water heater, which can lead to inefficiency and even the need for water heater repair in Orange County. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ensure that your water heater runs efficiently throughout the winter. In this blog post, we will go over what you can do to keep your water heater running efficiently during the cold winter months and avoid the need for water heater repair in Orange County

Tips to keep your water heater running efficiently during winter

Insulate the tank and pipes:

Insulating your water heater tank and pipes can reduce heat loss and keep the water hot for longer. This means your water heater won't have to work as hard, which will reduce energy consumption and save you money on your energy bills. You can buy pre-cut insulation kits for your specific water heater model, or wrap the tank and pipes with fiberglass insulation and secure it with duct tape. Here's how you can insulate your water heater and tank:

• Measure the size of the tank and pipes: Measure the height, width, and circumference of the tank and the length and diameter of the pipes to determine how much insulation material you'll need.
• Purchase insulation material: You can purchase pre-cut insulation kits specifically designed for your water heater model, or you can buy fiberglass insulation and cut it to size yourself. You'll also need duct tape to secure the insulation.
• Prepare the tank: Clean the surface of the tank and pipes to remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the insulation.
• Wrap the tank: Start at the bottom of the tank and wrap the insulation around it, securing it in place with duct tape every few inches. Make sure to overlap the edges of each piece of insulation to create a continuous layer.
• Insulate the pipes: Cut pieces of insulation to the length of each pipe, and then wrap the insulation around the pipes, securing it in place with duct tape.
• Secure the insulation: Make sure the insulation is secure and won't shift or come loose. If necessary, use additional duct tape to reinforce the edges or seams.
• Test the temperature: After insulating the tank and pipes, wait a few hours and then check the temperature of the water coming out of the tap.

If the water is still hot enough for your needs, the insulation is working as intended. By insulating your water heater and tank, you can reduce heat loss and keep the water hot for longer, which can save energy and money.

Adjust the temperature

Most people keep their water heaters set to 140°F, but this can be dangerous as the water can scald skin. The Department of Energy recommends setting the temperature to 120°F, which is hot enough for most uses and will also reduce energy consumption. To adjust the temperature of a water heater, follow these steps:

• Locate the thermostat: It's usually found near the bottom of the tank and looks like a dial or digital display.
• Turn off power to the heater: This can be done by turning off the circuit breaker or removing the fuse that powers the unit.
• Set the temperature: Use a thermometer to test the water temperature, then adjust the thermostat to the desired temperature. If it's a dial, turn it to the desired temperature setting. If it's a digital display, use the up or down buttons to set the temperature.
• Turn the power back on: Replace the fuse or turn the circuit breaker back on.
• Wait for the water to heat up: It may take a few hours for the water to reach the desired temperature.

Note: The recommended temperature for most household water heaters is 120°F to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Drain the tank regularly

As part of the process of your water heater repair in Orange County, you need to drain your tank on a regular basis. Over time, minerals and sediment can build up in the bottom of the tank and reduce the efficiency of the water heater. Draining the tank once a year helps remove these minerals and improve the heater's efficiency. To drain a water heater tank, follow these steps:

• Turn off the power: Turn off the circuit breaker or remove the fuse that powers the unit.
• Turn off the water supply: Locate the cold water supply valve and turn it off.
• Attach a hose to the drain valve: Locate the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and attach a hose to it. Place the other end of the hose in a drain or outside.
• The drain valve must be turned counterclockwise to be opened. Water should start flowing out of the hose.
• Flush the tank: Allow the water to drain completely until it runs clear, which may take several minutes.
• Close the drain valve: Turn the drain valve clockwise to close it.
• Turn on the water supply: Turn the cold water supply valve back on.
• Turn the power back on: Replace the fuse or turn the circuit breaker back on.

Note: Draining a water heater should only be done periodically to remove sediment buildup and prolong the life of the tank.

Check the pressure-relief valve

The pressure-relief valve is a safety device that opens to release water if the pressure in the tank gets too high. If the valve is clogged, it won't be able to release water and could cause a dangerous buildup of pressure. Regularly check the valve by lifting the lever and letting water flow into a bucket. If the valve is working properly, water should flow out. If not, it may need to be replaced.

Maintain proper space

Your water heater needs enough space for air circulation, so it's important to keep flammable materials like curtains or boxes away from it. It's also important to keep the area around the water heater clear and free of clutter so that there's enough room for maintenance and repairs.

Service regularly

Regular maintenance can help catch and repair any issues before they become major problems. A professional from EZ Heat and Air can inspect your water heater for signs of rust or corrosion, check the pressure-relief valve, and flush the tank to remove sediment. They can also check the temperature and pressure settings and make any necessary adjustments to improve efficiency. Having your water heater serviced once a year is a good idea to keep it running smoothly and extend its lifespan. In conclusion, proper maintenance is key to keeping your water heater running efficiently during the winter. Regular checks, such as flushing the tank and adjusting the temperature, can go a long way in ensuring optimal performance. In the event that you need water heater repair or installation, there are numerous reliable providers of water heater repair and installation services in Orange County that can help you implement the above steps. By taking the necessary steps to maintain your water heater, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure a constant supply of hot water during the winter months.