Keeping Your Hot Water Heater Running During the Winter

Nothing can be more frustrating than getting up on a cold and wintery day only to realize that the hot water isn't working and that, unfortunately, you are in for one very, very cold shower. Fortunately there are a few tips that you can follow to maintain your hot water heater during the cold months and throughout the rest of the year, helping to ensure that your hot water doesn't fail you at the most inopportune moments.

Make Sure that Your Hot Water Supply is Sufficient

A hot water heater can be overtaxed by excessive use of hot or warm water. In general, it is a good idea for your home's hot or warm water demands to be no greater than 75% of your heater's capacity. In other words, if your family uses 15 gallons of hot water in a cycle, then your heater should have a total capacity of 20 gallons.

Flush Your Water Regularly

Stagnant water in a heater can create buildup that leads to other problems such as noise and odd smells and different colors in the water. It is a good idea to regularly flush out your heater to keep it running optimally. This can prevent sediment and other buildup issues that can interfere with the optimal running of your unit and can lead to major issues in the long run. Remember to carefully research and review any shut down protocols associated with your particular appliance and to consult with professionals if a flush out is outside your DIY skill set.

Have a Pro Check Your Water Heater Out

Sometimes problems with large household appliances like a water heater are beyond even the most highly skilled homeowner. If your heater is presenting with problems that you cannot address on your own, make sure to bring in a professional to consult you on your unit. Small problems like leaks, low water pressure, and more can indicate a larger problem that can quickly snowball out of control. Don't stand on your pride, and bring in the experts to help ensure you have a nice warm shower throughout the winter months. No one wants to get surprised by waking up to cold water in the middle of February. By taking some regular proactive steps to maintain your hot water heater, you can help to guarantee that you and your family are not left without during the coldest times of the year.