Schedule Water Heater Repair Service Before Winter Hits | Myrtle Beach, SC
If you live in Myrtle Beach, SC, or the surrounding environs, you know that the winters can be mild. However, there are still some cold snaps that can catch you off guard. And if your water heater is on the fritz, those cold snaps can be downright miserable. That’s why it’s critical to schedule a water heater repair before winter hits. A professional can clean it, inspect it for damage, and make any necessary repairs. This will help ensure that your appliance runs smoothly all winter long.
At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach, we cater to residential and commercial clients throughout Myrtle Beach, SC. We understand the significance of having a properly functioning water heater, and that’s why we provide a variety of water heater repair services for different water heater systems. We’re licensed, insured, experienced, and dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service at all times.
What Does Water Heater Service Include?
Water heaters are a relatively hands-off appliance. However, they do need some maintenance regularly. Here’s what to expect when you schedule a water heater repair:
Test Water Heater Temperature and Pressure Relief Valves
Water heater temperature and pressure relief valves (T&P Valve) is one of the most crucial components of your appliance. A T&P Valve opens and releases excess pressure and heat whenever the temperature or pressure in your tank gets too high. Over time, however, the valve can corrode or get damaged, which can prevent it from opening properly. Your plumber will want to ensure the valve is in good working order.
Flush the Water Heater Tank
Although the water that runs through the pipes and into your home is clean, the water sitting in your tank might not be as clean. With time, sediment can build up at the bottom of the tank, leading to a host of problems, including decreased efficiency and increased wear and tear on the tank. To prevent those problems, your water heater repair pro will flush the tank and get rid of any sediment that has accumulated in the tank.
Inspect the Anode Rod (and Replace It if Needed)
The anode rod is a long metal rod that runs through the center of your water heater tank. Made of aluminum, magnesium, or some kind of alloy, it attracts corrosion-causing particles, thereby protecting the tank from rust and other damage. If the anode rod has rust, it can’t do its job properly. Typically, it should be inspected annually or biannually since it’ll need to be replaced periodically.
Check the Gas Connections and Ventilation
If you have a gas water heater, your plumber will want to check the gas connections and ventilation to ensure they’re in good condition. A loose connection or blockage in the ventilation could cause a dangerous gas leak, which can pose a serious health hazard. It’s thus necessary to have these checked and repaired as soon as possible.
Adjust the Temperature Setting
The ideal water heater temperature is between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. However, many people keep their water heaters set at a higher temperature to ensure they always have hot water. While this might be fine in the short term, it can actually lead to increased energy bills and premature tank failure, not to mention scalding. One of the things a water heater repair pro will do is adjust the temperature to the recommended setting.
Inspect for Leaks
Leaks can occur in the tank and the pipes, which can cause a lot of damage if they’re not fixed promptly. Leaks can also be an indication of a more severe problem, such as corrosion. Therefore, it’s vital to inspect the entire unit at regular intervals, including at the onset of every winter. If the plumber notices any compromised connections, they’ll address them ASAP!
Inspect the Electric Elements and Connections
If you have an electric water heater, have its elements and connections inspected to ensure they’re properly secured and in good working order at all times. The last thing you’d want is for your water heater to short circuit because of loose connections.
Importance of Water Heater Service
Water heaters are an essential part of any modern home, and they require regular maintenance and repair to function properly. Here are the top reasons why water heater repair and maintenance service is crucial:
Increased efficiency: A well-maintained water heater is more efficient than one that isn’t. That means lower utility bills, fewer breakdowns, and a longer lifespan for your appliance.
Extended lifespan: With regular care and maintenance, your appliance will last much longer. This is because any potential issue will be caught and fixed before they cause irreparable damage.
Improved safety: Water heaters can pose a safety hazard if they’re not well maintained. For example, a gas water heater with a cracked heat exchanger can leak carbon monoxide into your home. By contrast, an electric water heater with loose connections can cause a fire. Therefore, it’s vital to schedule a water heater repair service regularly.
No surprises: By keeping your water heater well maintained, you can avoid any unexpected surprises, such as cold showers or coming home to a flooded basement from a broken water heater.
Get peace of mind: When you have a maintenance plan with Myrtle Beach, SC, water heater repair, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing your unit is being taken care of by professionals. This allows you to focus on other important things, such as your family, job, or hobbies.
Your Trusted Myrtle Beach Water Heater Service Pros
The water heater repair technicians at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach are factory-trained and have extensive experience in repairing all water heater makes and models, including gas water heaters, electric water heaters, traditional water heaters, and tankless water heaters. We’re licensed, insured, bonded, and available 24/7 to provide emergency repairs.