Did you know Americans typically use between 80 and 120 gallons of hot water each day? About 25% of energy usage in your home will come from your water heater.

Carter’s My Plumber’s Kelson Carter shares important information to know about different types of water heaters the multiple parts on each water heater. 

There are three types of water heaters: gas, electric and tankless. The average gas or electric water heater lifespan is eight years, and a tankless water heater’s is 15-20 years. Within each water heater, there are multiple parts that a technician or professional may ask you to locate:

1. Locate shut off valve
If there is an emergency leak, call a professional immediately. Start by locating the inlet and outlet. The inlet should feel cold because cold water is coming in. This is where you will find the shut off valve.

2. Locate pressure relief valve
The pressure relief valve prevents the heater from blowing up. You will see that it is coming off the top of the water heater with a pipe running along the side. If this runs too long, there will be too much pressure built up. 

3. Locate drain valve
The drain valve will empty the tank and is necessary when getting a new water heater. Homeowners will perform the basic maintenance within the drain valve.  

Draining the water out of your water heater for regular maintenance every few months can prevent corrosion from the contaminants at the bottom. You will need a hose and bucket to drain, and follow these steps:
1.    Unscrew the hose cap on water heater. If it doesn’t have one, it’s a good idea to get one to prevent future leaking.
2.    Attach the short hose to the water heater.
3.    Place opposite end of the hose in the bucket.
a.    Make sure to hold this end, so the hose doesn’t spray everywhere (you will be dealing with a good amount of pressure).
4.    Loosen the water valve to release water (be careful – it could be hot!).
5.    Run a few gallons out or until the water runs clear (you may have to tighten the valve and empty the bucket a few times).

If you have a failure, turn off the water heater, and call a professional!

Go to www.cartersmyplumber.com for more information. 

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