With winter well underway in New Jersey, you may be paying more attention to your heating system and it’s ability to sufficiently warm your home. However, there is another major system that is working overtime during the cold weather months – your water heaters.
As we turn to our water heaters more frequently for warm showers, cozy baths, and heated water for household chores, this increased demand can put a significant strain on the appliance. Here’s why winter is particularly tough on your water heater and what you can do to protect it.
Increased Demand
During the winter, the need for hot water rises dramatically as we use more water for longer showers, baths, and heating needs. This higher demand places extra pressure on your water heater, causing it to work harder and longer than usual. If your system is old or poorly maintained, this can result in malfunctions or even breakdowns, leaving you without hot water when you need it most.
Cold Temperatures
In the winter the temperature of water coming into your home is much lower, sometimes near freezing, forcing the water heater to work harder to heat the water to the desired temperature. This added effort can lead to higher energy bills and a greater risk of the heater’s components wearing out faster.
Frozen Pipes
Freezing temperatures can also affect your water heater’s plumbing. Pipes running to and from the water heater in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, or garages, are at risk of freezing. When water inside the pipes freezes, it expands and can cause cracks or even complete ruptures, which could lead to leaks or a serious water damage problem.
Sediment Buildup
During winter, many homeowners may notice that their water heater isn’t performing as well as usual. One common issue is sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. As the water heater works harder to meet the increased demand for hot water, sediment in the tank can accumulate and harden, affecting its efficiency and ability to heat water properly.
How to Protect Your Water Heater This Winter
- Insulate exposed pipes. To avoid frozen pipes and potential damage to the water heater, it’s essential to insulate the pipes leading to and from your water heater, especially in unheated areas. Additionally, insulating your water heater tank can help it retain heat more effectively, reducing the amount of energy needed to heat water.
- Perform regular maintenance. Winter is the best time to check your water heater for any signs of wear or malfunction. Schedule an annual professional maintenance check to inspect the tank for sediment buildup, leaks, or corrosion. Flushing your tank to remove sediment will not only improve efficiency but also prolong the life of your unit.
- Set the thermostat to a safe temperature. Ensure that your water heater thermostat is set to an appropriate level, typically 120°F. Setting it too high can put unnecessary strain on the system, while too low a setting can result in lukewarm water.
- Keep the area around the heater clear. Ensure that your water heater has adequate ventilation and is not obstructed by furniture, stored items, or debris. Good airflow around the unit helps maintain its efficiency and prevents overheating.
Is your water heater struggling to supply a steady supply of hot water this winter? Contact Anthony’s Plumbing today to schedule a system inspection and, if needed, new water heater proposal.
