When preparing for winter, most people never think of their water heaters because this device is tucked away from view. Preparing your water heater to brave the winter temperatures is just as important as all the other things on your to-do list. These tips will help you get your water heater ready for the cold season.

1. Call for an Inspection

The first step to preparing your water heater for the winter is to have it professionally inspected. A water heater inspection is performed by a plumber. During your water heater inspection, the plumber will look for problems such as rust and corrosion. If the plumber finds a problem, they will recommend a solution. Ideally, inspections need to occur annually, preferably before the winter really gets underway.

2. Insulate the Tank and Connecting Pipes

Next, you need to insulate your water heater’s tank and the pipes that connect to it, especially if your water heater is near an inside wall, in a basement, or in the garage. You can purchase a special wrap that you can use to insulate your water heater. The insulation wrap is designed to trap heat inside the tank so the water heater doesn’t have to work as hard. Additionally, you need to insulate the connecting pipes. You can insulate these pipes by using insulation sleeves, insulation wraps, or heat tape. If you decide on heat tape, have a plumber apply it because using heat tape incorrectly can be dangerous. To make sure your water heater is correctly insulated, contact a plumber.

3. Flush Out Your Tank

Finally, you need to flush out your hot water tank. Over time, sediment will build up in your water heater’s tank. When there is too much sediment, your water heater will start to have trouble heating water optimally. Have a plumber flush your tank once a year to make certain sediment does not interfere with the functioning of your water heater. Do not attempt to flush out your water heater yourself. You would be dealing with water at scalding temperatures, and performing the task incorrectly can result in severe injuries. Not to mention the fact that you can make a serious mess and cause significant damage if you are not careful.

When you put these three tips into action, your water heater will be prepared for winter and should function well. If you reside in Grand Forks, ND or nearby and want to make sure your water heater is ready for the cold weather that lies ahead, contact us at Total Care Plumbing today.