You’re in the middle of a chilly Edmonton winter and the water from your shower suddenly turns icy. That’s when you start thinking “Shouldn’t I have scheduled that water heater maintenance earlier?” We’ve all been there—waiting until the last minute to deal with something that’s quietly been lurking on our to-do list.
But here’s the truth: regular water heater maintenance is your best friend. Not only does it prevent those unexpected cold water shocks, but it also helps your water heater last longer and work more efficiently.
So, how often should you schedule professional water heater maintenance in Edmonton? Let’s dive into that.
Why Water Heater Maintenance Is Essential
Your water heater works behind the scenes, day in and day out. Over time, sediment and minerals accumulate making it less efficient and more prone to breakdowns. Without regular maintenance, the unit has to work harder, which can drive up your energy bills and shorten its lifespan. No one wants that, right?
In a place like Edmonton, where cold weather means an increased demand for hot water, it’s even more crucial to ensure your water heater is in peak condition.
The Ideal Maintenance Schedule For Edmonton Homes
So, how often should you schedule maintenance for your water heater? As a rule of thumb, annual maintenance is recommended for most homes. This ensures your water heater efficiency remains high and problem-free throughout the year.
Here’s why once a year is a good plan:
- Sediment Build-Up: Over time, mineral deposits can settle at the bottom of your water heater tank leading to less hot water and increased energy usage.
- Anode Rod Inspection: The anode rod, which protects your water heater from rust needs to be inspected yearly. If it’s corroded, it’s time to replace it before rust takes over your tank.
- Pressure Relief Valve Check: A malfunctioning pressure relief valve can turn your water heater into a ticking time bomb. Regular checks ensure it’s in working order.
And yes, this might sound like a lot of “technical mumbo jumbo,” but that’s exactly why you need a professional to handle it. They know what to look for and can ensure everything is working smoothly.
Edmonton’s Harsh Winters And Its Impact On Water Heaters
Now, let’s talk about Edmonton’s notorious winters. If you’re a resident, you know how important hot water becomes during those long, freezing months. Without proper water heater maintenance, you’re looking at a potential disaster.
Imagine your water heater going kaput in the middle of January — that’s a scenario nobody wants. Regular maintenance ensures that your water heater can handle the increased workload that comes with Edmonton’s cold climate.
What Happens During A Professional Water Heater Maintenance?
So, what exactly happens when a professional comes to service your water heater? It’s not just a glance and a pat on the tank. A thorough maintenance check will typically include the following:
- Sediment Flush: The technician will drain the tank and remove the built-up sediment, which improves efficiency.
- Anode Rod Replacement: As mentioned earlier, this essential rod helps prevent rust. If it’s worn down, it’ll be replaced to keep your tank safe.
- Temperature and Pressure Valve Testing: The technician will ensure that the pressure relief valve is functioning correctly to avoid any dangerous pressure build-up.
- Checking for Leaks: Any minor leaks or weaknesses in the system are addressed before they become major problems.
- Thermostat Inspection: If the thermostat is off, your water heater may not be heating water efficiently, leading to higher energy bills.
What About Tankless Water Heaters?
Tankless water heaters are a bit of a different beast compared to traditional tank heaters, but they still need love and care. The good news? They don’t require maintenance quite as often—every two to three years should do the trick.
However, if you have hard water in your home, you may want to schedule maintenance annually to prevent scaling.
Benefits Of Regular Water Heater Maintenance
Now, let’s get down to the real benefits of keeping up with maintenance:
- Extend the Lifespan of Your Water Heater: Regular check-ups can add years to the life of your water heater saving you from premature replacement costs.
- Improve Efficiency: A well-maintained water heater runs more efficiently, which means lower energy bills for you.
- Avoid Costly Repairs: Catching minor issues during maintenance can prevent expensive repairs down the line. It’s always cheaper to fix a small problem than to replace an entire water heater.
- Peace of Mind: Lastly, knowing your water heater is in good shape gives you one less thing to worry about during Edmonton’s brutal winters.
Nor Can Heating & Air: Your Go-To For Water Heater Maintenance In Edmonton
When it comes to professional water heater maintenance in Edmonton, Nor Can Heating & Air is a trusted name. Serving Edmonton and the surrounding areas, Nor Can Heating & Air doesn’t just specialize in water heater services. We also offer a wide range of HVAC services to keep your home comfortable year-round.
Our experienced technicians are known for their prompt service, thorough inspections, and long-lasting solutions. Want to ensure your water heater is ready for Edmonton’s winter? Contact us today.
