The more you know about your water heater, the better prepared you’ll be to spot potential operational and safety issues.

Start by lowering the water heater temperature to 120 degrees. Many plumbers may initially set your water heater to 140 degrees, a temperature that could cause scalding.  Just remember to check the instructions for your particular model before adjusting the temperature control.

Check it Out!

Examine your water heater periodically. Check for water leaks which can damage your home…plus they could add up to a lot of wasted water.  Check inside the combustion chamber where the flame should be burning mostly blue. The chamber should be somewhat free of dust, and the chamber roof free of rust and black soot. You should also check the burner periodically. If rust is collecting in the burner compartment, it’s time to have it serviced by a professional.

Overall, we recommend checking your water heater once a month while scheduling a professional tune-up and inspection once a year.

Clean it Up!

Keep the area around the water heater clean and clear. Dust can take years off a water heater’s life. Brooms, paint brushes and other items that commonly get stored in the utility closet can catch fire if placed too close to the combustion chamber or water heater.

Be on the Alert for Gas Leaks!

If you don’t already know how, learn how to smell or otherwise detect a gas leak.  For starters you want to apply the smell test as close to the floor as possible.  If you smell gas, here’s what to do next:

• Don’t turn on a light switch or touch anything that might cause static spark.
• Leave your house immediately, leaving at least some windows and doors open.
• Call your gas supplier from a safe location outside the house.
• Turn off the main shut-off valve at the gas meter.  If you don’t know what that is and want to be sure you’re doing it correctly, give us a call.

To play it even more safely, we recommend installing a gas detection meter.   It will go a long way to ensuring your long-term safety.

When was the last time your water heater was properly inspected?  If you can’t remember, then it’s been too long.  For prompt and dependable service, with your satisfaction guaranteed, contact the plumbing professionals at Blau Sudden Service today.

1-800-BLAU-NOW  | (414) 626-1991

Click here to ask questions or schedule service now