Blog

Call us now to schedule service in Caldwell or the surrounding areas!

GET IN TOUCH

CALL US AT (973) 564-1752 OR CLICK BELOW TO GET STARTED

Blog

technician repairing an hot-water heater

Leave It to the Pros: Why DIY Water Heater Maintenance Can Backfire

Your water heater works tirelessly behind the scenes as it keeps you warm with steamy showers and hot baths. For it to continue to do its job well, maintenance is required. You may feel tempted to perform the maintenance yourself to save some money; however, there is a good reason to resist the DIY temptation. Water heaters are complex appliances, and attempting any form of maintenance without proper training can lead to bigger problems, safety hazards, and even a voided warranty.

Why DIY Water Heater Maintenance Tasks Are a Risky Business

Water heaters deal with elevated temperatures, pressure, and sometimes even gas. One wrong move can have some profound consequences. These can include scalding hot water leaks, gas leaks, or even explosions. These are serious dangers that a professional plumber can avoid through their training and experience.

For example, some homeowners might think they can simply flush out their tanks themselves after watching a few well-designed DIY videos on the Internet. However, that is a terrible idea. One wrong move can cause various problems such as property damage and scalding burns that can potentially lead to hospitalization. Sustaining an electrical shock is also a risk.

Part of water heater maintenance is checking that the pressure relief valve, a safety feature that releases excess pressure, works properly. However, that is not a DIY task. Tinkering with this valve can be dangerous. A licensed and experienced plumber knows how to handle this valve safely and make sure that it is functioning correctly.

What a Professional Plumber Can Do for Your Water Heater

A plumber can perform preventative maintenance tasks to keep your water heater performing optimally and avoid future problems. When a licensed plumber arrives for your water heater maintenance appointment, they will start by asking you about any problems you have been experiencing. Then, they will get to work inspecting your water heater. This typically involves checking the temperature and pressure relief valve, flushing out sediment buildup in the tank, and examining the anode rod (which helps prevent corrosion). The plumber will also visually inspect the tank, pipes, and connections for leaks or damage. They will explain their findings and any recommendations for repairs or replacements, and they’ll answer any questions you may have about keeping your water heater in top shape.

By calling a professional plumber to handle your water heater maintenance, you are ensuring the safety and the well-being of your plumbing system. If you reside in Caldwell, NJ and need help with water heater service, contact us at Lesco Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today.