Hot Water Heater Maintenance

We need heating this winter time, the sad news is that heating costs had risen, and bills would really give us a headache. Despite of this, there is still good news at your own cost. Just simply follow these techniques to help you save up with your bills.

1. Clean your furnace and change filters. A dirty air filter will block the airflow from your furnace and can decrease the life of your furnace. A clean furnace is very efficient.
2. Turn down the thermostat. You can save up to 15% on heating cost once you set back your thermostat to 10 degrees at night and when you leave home or the house is unoccupied.
3. Install a programmable thermostat. It allows reducing your home’s temperature at night and during the day and still have the home warm when you wake up or when you come home.
4. Use ceiling fans. Running the fans slowly and in reverse will keep that warm air circulating and keep you more comfortable.
5. Reduce hot water use. It will reduce the cost of heating water.
6. Use curtains. Take advantage of the natural light and the sun’s heat enter your room. At night, draw your curtains to keep the heat inside.
7. Seal leaks. Seal up air leaks at home because this can add up to your heating cost.
8. Install a water heater blanket. Insulating the water heater blanket can save your energy cost.
9. Make sure ceilings and attics are properly insulated.
10. Turn it off. To save up energy cost, if you are not using your appliances, it is best to turn it off.

We may never lower energy rates; still we can do something to not suffer from high energy bills. If we just learn these techniques and follow it consistently, then there’s no problem on saving up for heating costs.

A broken water heater is usually a source of inconvenience causing problems such as cold showers, dirty clothes and unsterilized dishes amongst others. This happens to both the electric and gas fired water heaters. But some of the water heater breakage problems are minor and can be rectified easily while others require expert intervention.

Amongst the water heater problems that make them not to function include building up of hard water residue which leaves sediments at the bottom of the tank thus interfering with water heating. The sediments usually build up over time reaching to levels which cannot permit normal water heating. One of the effective ways of solving this problem includes ensuring that the water entering the tank is sufficiently filtered so as to prevent impurities from getting into the tank. Adding water softener to the tank also ensures that the residue build up is minimal consequently enabling efficient water heating.

Another common problem with water heaters is electrical related burn outs. This usually affects either the top or the bottom heating elements of the heating tank. If the water coming out is initially cold and then becomes hot, then it is likely that the lower element is the one which is burnt out. But if the water starts by being warm and then gets cold, then it is likely that the top element is the one with problem. The tank might also be having a spoilt thermostat. It is paramount to start by switching off the power before checking or repairing any electrical fault so as to avoid electrocution.

Gas fired water heaters usually experience problems of thermocouples when they get worn out. The ideal way of rectifying this problem is replacing the old thermocouple with a new one which is more efficient. It is also important to check and smell if there is any gas leakage because gas can cause a lot of damage if it comes into contact with fire.

Do it yourself task or chores can be entertaining and challenging. Trying to redecorate the house with your own spare time could be a hassle however there’s a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction and profitable after doing it. Some tasks could be dangerous and may need professional help but most of it is doable. Think of something you can achieve and the money you’ll save in doing in on your own.

A do it yourself task could be an emergency plumbing repair, fixing the heating system, repainting the walls or plastering wallpapers or just simple repair and maintenance problems. Before starting your project, make sure to cover your possessions to protect it. Your project could be dusty and dirty. Make sure to start with the basics, know what tools to use for each job. Don’t use unfamiliar power tools and keep children away from the work area.

Plan your project ahead of time. Know your budget and be knowledgeable about your project requirements like the tools you’ll need and amount of time in doing so. Don’t forget to set an affordable budget. Get advice from the experts or anyone with experience in doing your project.

Always keep in mind that DIY tasks are building work. This job takes your own time so you’ll only cover the materials needed for the project. Stress and frustrations will build up but there’s this satisfying feeling of achievement when it’s all done and completed. You can also amaze friends and family with your accomplishment. Appreciate and be proud of your own effort.