Keeping your water heater in optimal condition is fundamental to ensuring comfort to you and your family. This is particularly important during cold winter nights in Ontario, when water heaters must work harder to provide you with the warm water you need for your daily activities. In this blog, we are showing you what you can do to prepare your system for the winter and when professional help may be necessary.
Insulate Your Pipes and Water Tank
Temperatures can reach -30°C during the coldest days of the year in Ontario. This means that it can be very difficult for water heaters to provide you with warm water effectively, as the extreme weather conditions can cause significant heat loss through the unit’s exterior. An efficient way of preparing your water heater for the winter and preventing heat from escaping is by insulating the tank and pipes. This not only reduces the stress your water heater is subject to but also prevents pipes from freezing and bursting.
Check and Adjust the Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure valve ensures that excessive pressure is released from your water heater to prevent damage to the system. During the winter, heating cycles can be more intense, which is why it is fundamental that you ensure the pressure valves are in good condition. A simple way of checking the state of your release valve is by lifting it and letting water flow for five seconds. If after the valve is closed you can spot leaking, or if no water comes out when you open the valve, you must have it changed immediately.
Inspect the Anode Rod
The anode rod of your water heater is a steel wire which is typically covered by magnesium. Its function is to attract minerals and sediments to protect the steel walls of the tank and prevent the formation of rust. However, it is fundamental that you inspect your anode rod from time to time. Ideally, they should be changed once every three years to ensure no damage is caused to your tank and that you can increase the lifespan of your water heater.
Adjust the Temperature
In extreme cold temperatures, it is recommended that you adjust the temperatures of your water heater to ensure you have access to warm water. In most cases, simply increasing it by 5 to 10 degrees may be enough to ensure your system will be able to properly provide you with hot water in the winter.
When to Call a Professional
While some of these tasks, such as insulating your water heater or adjusting the temperature of your system, can be easily performed by most people; others may require more technical expertise. If you believe you have to change the anode rod of your water heater or if a pressure valve replacement is necessary, counting on the help of experienced plumbers is a more reliable, safe and efficient way of getting the problem solved. Attempting to maintain a water heater without proper expertise can cause accidents and damage your unit.
Water Heater Maintenance and Repair Services in the GTA
Need experienced professionals who can offer you reliable and efficient water heater services? We have got you covered. Black Forest Plumbing can provide you with tankless water heaters and hot water tanks maintenance and repair solutions in throughout the GTA, York Region and the surrounding areas. Don’t hesitate to give us a call and let us help you be prepared for the upcoming winter. Reach out to us!