A water heater can take up to 15 percent of a home’s utility bills. Naturally, a homeowner will look for ways to keep water heater expenditures to a minimum. The good news is that many of the steps to minimize water heater bills also help prolong its life and keep it in tip-top condition. Your Edmonton water heater professionals would like to share with you the following tips to lower your utility bills, increase your water heater’s lifespan, and prevent problems from happening.

Keep the area clear around your water heater
You need to give your water heater space to breathe. Especially if you own a gas unit, it’s going to need easy access to oxygen in the air to burn gas properly. If a water heater can’t get enough oxygen, it not only affects the unit’s efficiency, but it can also lead to parts damage, and even cause harmful carbon monoxide leaks.

Keep your heater’s temperature at 120 degrees Fahrenheit

Every time you reduce your heater thermostat by 10 degrees Fahrenheit, you can save up to 3%-5% of your water heating costs. Likewise, lower water heater temperatures mean that you’re not pushing the unit to its limits, which can help it last longer.

Install heat traps

Heat traps make your water heater more efficient, as it doesn’t need to work hard to retain heat. You may need the help of an Edmonton water heater professional to have a heat trap installed, but a few water heater models come equipped with heat traps.

Drain your water heater at least once a year

It can help to drain your heater’s contents at least once a year to check the condition of the tank. If you notice significant mineral buildup, then a full flush is necessary. Mineral buildup can cause the heater to work inefficiently, so it must be removed.

Perform a regular water heater inspection

Check your water heater regularly for signs of leaks and corrosion. You can do this once every three to four months. Complement your personal inspection with an annual water heater inspection conducted by an Edmonton hot water tanks specialist such as those from Capital Plumbing and Heating Ltd. with professional inspection and maintenance, you can stay on top of potential problems before they happen.