You should spring clean your hot water tank the same way you would during the rest of the year. However, if you’ve been a bit negligent when it comes to water heater maintenance, spring can be the time when you tend to it along with the rest of your spring cleaning. Here’s what to do.

Inspect the Water Heater for Rust

Inspect your water heater for rust. Rust is problematic because it’s a sign that something inside the tank is undergoing corrosion. This makes it more likely that the tank is leaking or will shortly start to leak.

Look for Leaks

If you do find a leak, turn of the valve that supplies the cold water, and turn the water heater off at the circuit box. Drain the tank and call a plumber. Leaks can result from a faulty temperature/pressure relief valve, corroded pipes, or even defective inlet and outlet valves.

Drain the Tank if You Haven’t Done So

If you haven’t drained the tank in over six months, spring is a good time to do so. Again, turn the water heater off at the power source. Turn off the cold water valve, then drain the tank. You can hook the drain up to a length of garden hose and drain it into a bucket. If your water heater is on bare ground, just open the drain and let the water rush out. For extra spring cleaning, open up the tank and scrub away any sediment. Replace the sacrificial anode rod if it’s been worn to a wire. Close the tank, fill it up again, then drain it until the water that comes out of it is clear.

Clean the Outside of the Tank

While the power is off, clean the outside of the tank with the brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner. Then use the crevice attachment to clean around it and clean the pipes. Wipe the tank down with a dry cloth, wipe it again with a damp cloth, then wipe it dry. A bit of detergent can be used to get rid of tough spots.

Set Up a Maintenance Schedule

While you’re spring cleaning your water heater, set up a maintenance schedule with a plumber. Plumbers can troubleshoot small problems that you might not see until they grow big and expensive to fix. Hire a plumber to do this at least once a year.

Your water heater gives you reliable hot water, and there’s no reason it shouldn’t be cared for like other parts of your home. If your heater needs repair or replacement services in Caldwell, NJ, don’t hesitate to call our professional plumbers at Lesco Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.