A water heater is one of those devices that households use on a daily basis without giving much thought to how it actually works. As it operates in the background and is quiet, maintenance jobs are deferred until something goes wrong. Putting off maintenance work seems like a smart fiscal strategy at first, but it tends to backfire.
Minor problems in the home water heater do not always remain minor if they are not dealt with. From buildups to compromised parts and issues related to pressure, the problems tend to build from the inside out. Homeowners can soon find that what started out as a simple service call can become a conversation about replacing the product.
This is especially the case when water heater services in Tampa, FL, are missed in a region that is experiencing the stresses associated with heat, humidity, and water. Recognizing the factors associated with neglect can save you money.
1. Sediment Buildup Shortens the Life of the Tank
As time goes by, the minerals in the water sink to the bottom of the tank, forming sediments. The sediments cause the water heater to work even harder to heat water. The water will heat inefficiently, and this will result in higher energy consumption.
If the sediment isn’t removed during a routine service, the sediment will harden and create a heat barrier against the bottom of the tank. This will cause the lining to deteriorate faster due to the retained heat. Eventually, leaks will develop, leaving replacement the only choice.
2. Small Component Wear Turns Into Major System Failure
There are components in the water heater that will naturally wear out with the passage of time. Maintenance is undertaken to ensure that the components are identified when they haven’t failed entirely. A minor issue can quietly snowball into a problem that affects the entire system if it’s left unchecked.
A faulty thermostat could lead to overheating, while a worn-out heating element can disrupt electrical or gas connections. These failures usually compound, leading to damage to nearby components. At this point, repair is no longer economical.
3. Pressure & Temperature Issues Pass Unnoticed
A water heater requires accurate pressure and temperature controls in order to function properly. However, relief valves are placed in these systems with the express purpose of relieving pressure; therefore, they need routine servicing so that these functions do not fail without notice.
If the buildup of pressure is not checked, the internal linings can develop cracks, or the welds in the tank could become weakened. In some situations, the system may also shut down to avoid a catastrophic failure of the system. As the strength of the system has been compromised, there will be no alternative but to replace the system.
4. Corrosion Extends Beyond the Water Heater
Typically, corrosion within the water heater begins within the heater itself by attacking the sacrificial anode rods that are installed as a corrosion inhibitor within the tank. Eventually, without maintenance, the anode rods will deteriorate, rendering them ineffective, and corrosion will begin within the tank walls.
As corrosion progresses, it can extend into nearby plumbing connections. This sometimes leads homeowners to discover broader issues that require repiping in Tampa, FL, to address weakened or damaged lines. What began as skipped maintenance can end as a much larger plumbing project.
5. Emergency Breakdowns Cost More Than Planned Service
The likelihood of a sudden breakdown is high in a water heater that has not been maintained. Breakdowns at inconvenient hours are a common occurrence. The cost of repair services is usually high, too. The homeowner is not in a position to compare costs.
Planned maintenance means that you can schedule repairs and replacements with your technicians. Emergency failures mean that you will no longer have this flexibility. Eventually, this can end up being much costlier than planned maintenance.
Conclusion
It may seem like nothing is being neglected by not having regular water heater system maintenance, but the aftermath is costly. Sediment, hidden damage, or even issues with water pressure, as well as corrosion, work quietly behind the scenes by shortening the life of the unit. Often, what could have been fixed with maintenance must instead be replaced. By remaining proactive, homeowners are able to protect both the water heater and the plumbing that surrounds it.
Regular maintenance makes heating equipment last longer and prevents unexpected breakdowns. The cost of maintenance is always much less compared to changing equipment entirely.
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If your water heater hasn’t been serviced recently, now is the time to act. Scheduling professional maintenance from Drain Flo Plumbing helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly replacements. A small investment today can protect your comfort and budget for years to come. Call the trusted experts at (813) 391-1500.
FAQs
1. How often should a water heater be professionally serviced?
A water heater needs to be maintained by professionals at least once every two years. More specifically In a typical year, water heater repair or replacement could be necessary, depending on a number of factors, including annual servicing by a professional.
2. Is it true that not performing maintenance can reduce the life span of a water heater?
Yes, neglect lets small issues build up. Because the system isn’t maintained, inside damage progresses, which can shorten the life of the system by years.