Lubbock, Texas, is known for its diverse and sometimes extreme climate. From scorching summers to chilly winters, your home’s appliances—especially the water heater—must withstand significant weather changes. For many, the water heater is often out of sight and out of mind, that is, until it fails. In colder weather, water heater failures can cause major disruptions in your household’s comfort and daily routine. To avoid this, regular maintenance is key, especially as the temperatures start to drop. In this blog, we’ll go over practical tips to help you prevent water heater failures in the cold, ensuring your home stays warm and comfortable all year long.
Why Water Heaters Fail in Colder Weather
Water heaters are responsible for supplying your home with hot water for bathing, cleaning, and cooking. However, when temperatures drop, these appliances work harder to maintain the desired water temperature. The increased demand can put stress on the system, leading to potential breakdowns if the water heater isn’t well-maintained.
In Lubbock, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, especially during the colder months. This means your water heater has to constantly adapt, which can lead to problems such as:
- Sediment Buildup: Cold weather can cause minerals in the water to settle more easily, leading to sediment buildup at the bottom of your tank, which can hinder efficiency and lead to damage.
- Frozen Pipes: If your water heater is installed in an unheated space like a garage or basement, the pipes may freeze in extremely cold weather, blocking the flow of water and causing your heater to overheat or malfunction.
- Increased Energy Use: Colder water entering the tank requires more energy to heat, which can strain your system if it’s already working inefficiently.
Now that we know some common reasons why water heaters fail during colder months, let’s dive into preventive maintenance tips to avoid these costly breakdowns.
1. Schedule Regular Inspections
One of the most effective ways to prevent water heater failures is to have it inspected by a professional at least once a year. A professional plumber can assess the overall health of your system, check for leaks, test the pressure relief valve, and ensure all parts are in good working condition. Regular inspections can help catch small issues before they become big problems.
Pro Tip: It’s best to schedule your inspection before the cold weather hits to ensure your water heater is prepared for the increased demand.
2. Flush the Tank to Remove Sediment Buildup
Sediment buildup is one of the leading causes of water heater inefficiency and failure, especially in hard water areas like Lubbock. Minerals in the water, such as calcium and magnesium, settle at the bottom of the tank over time. This sediment layer acts as an insulating barrier, forcing the heater to work harder to warm the water, which can lead to overheating and potential failure.
Flushing your water heater regularly can help prevent this issue. Here’s a simple guide on how to do it:
- Turn off the water heater: Shut off the power supply (electric) or gas valve (gas-powered) before beginning the process.
- Connect a hose to the drain valve: Attach a garden hose to the drain valve located near the bottom of the tank, and place the other end in a bucket or drain.
- Open the drain valve: Let the water drain completely from the tank to flush out the sediment.
- Refill the tank: Once the tank is drained, close the drain valve and refill the tank with fresh water.
Flushing your tank at least once a year will help maintain its efficiency and prolong its lifespan.
3. Insulate Your Water Heater and Pipes
Lubbock winters can bring chilly nights, and if your water heater is located in an unheated area like a garage or basement, the cold can affect its performance. Insulating your water heater tank and the surrounding pipes is an easy and effective way to prevent heat loss, improve efficiency, and avoid frozen pipes.
You can purchase an insulation blanket for your water heater at most hardware stores. Here’s how to install it:
- Measure your tank: Make sure to get the right size insulation blanket for your specific water heater.
- Wrap the blanket: Wrap the blanket around the water heater, securing it with tape or ties.
- Insulate the pipes: Insulate the hot and cold water pipes with foam pipe sleeves to further prevent heat loss.
Insulating your water heater can reduce standby heat loss by up to 45%, helping to save energy and extend the life of your appliance.
4. Test the Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve is a critical safety feature on your water heater, preventing it from over-pressurizing and potentially exploding. It’s important to test this valve regularly to ensure it’s functioning properly.
Here’s how to test the pressure relief valve:
- Turn off the power or gas supply to your water heater.
- Lift the valve lever: Located near the top of the tank, lift the lever slightly, and you should hear a slight hiss of air or see water draining from the overflow pipe.
- Release the lever: If no water or air escapes, the valve may be faulty and should be replaced immediately by a professional plumber.
Testing this valve ensures that your water heater is operating safely, especially when under increased pressure during colder months.
5. Adjust the Thermostat Settings
During the winter, you might be tempted to crank up the water heater temperature to keep up with the colder water entering your system. However, setting the temperature too high can put unnecessary strain on your water heater and increase the risk of scalding accidents.
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your water heater thermostat to 120°F for optimal energy efficiency and safety. This setting is hot enough to meet your household needs while preventing your system from overworking.
6. Watch for Warning Signs of Water Heater Failure
Even with regular maintenance, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs that indicate your water heater might be failing. Early detection of these signs can help prevent a complete breakdown and costly emergency repairs.
Some common warning signs include:
- Inconsistent Water Temperature: If your water temperature fluctuates between hot and cold, it could be a sign that your water heater is struggling to maintain the proper temperature.
- Strange Noises: Rumbling, popping, or hissing noises coming from your water heater could indicate sediment buildup or other internal issues.
- Leaking Water: Any visible leaks around the base of the water heater should be addressed immediately to prevent water damage and system failure.
- Rust-Colored Water: If your hot water has a rusty tint, it could be a sign that the inside of your tank is corroding.
If you notice any of these warning signs, contact a professional plumber right away to assess the situation.
For Plumbing Services in Lubbock, TX, Contact Leaky’s Plumbing, Heating & A/C Today
Maintaining your water heater is crucial to preventing failures during Lubbock’s colder months. By following these maintenance tips—scheduling regular inspections, flushing the tank, insulating the unit, and more—you can extend the life of your water heater and avoid unexpected breakdowns when you need hot water the most.
At Leaky’s Plumbing, Heating & A/C, we understand the importance of having a reliable water heater, especially during the winter. Our team of experienced plumbers can help you with routine maintenance, repairs, and water heater replacements to ensure your home stays comfortable year-round. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule a water heater inspection with us today to keep your system in top shape!
Call us or visit our website to book your appointment. Keep your home warm, your water hot, and your plumbing in top condition with Leaky’s Plumbing, Heating & A/C.
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