You need to be very careful when installing a water heater, or a geyser as it is sometimes also known. Water heater manufacturers do their best to provide the best parts that can bear the cold and hot water inside a water heater. But even the best parts will become worn out if they are not installed properly. Here we look at some tips for a successful water heater installation in Indianapolis and provide some guidance on how to maintain a water heater to prolong its life.
The following are some of the factors that you need to keep in mind when installing a water heater or geyser.
1. Space Around The Water Heater
Install a water heater with sufficient space between the water heater and the walls surrounding the water heater. There should be enough space for a technician to inspect all of the parts of the water heater without getting stuck between a wall and a hot spot. It is recommended to get a water heater installation from a professionally certified plumber. Professionally certified plumbers know exactly how much space there should be between the wall and specific water heater models.
Avoid installing a water heater directly above the toilet. In this case, it will become inconvenient to use the toilet if there is a leak in the water heater. A leak from a water heater has the potential to damage the equipment that is placed under it. This is why it is always recommended to install a water heater on a portion of the wall that has nothing underneath it.
2. The Height Of The Water Heater
The expert recommended height to install a water heater is at least 6 feet or 1.8 meters from the floor. A water heater installed at this height will deliver a strong hot water flow. Installing a water heater at a lower height can result in the water pressure dwindling to a trickle.
3. Substitute The Plastic Inlet & Outlet Pipes With Metal Pipes
Most new water heaters come with plastic inlet and outlet pipes for the water heater installation. Plastic is not as resistant to temperature changes as metal. This means that if you install the plastic pipes, they might need to be replaced sometime soon because of being worn out. Metal is much more resistant to water temperature changes in comparison to plastic.
Be careful to install all of the washers and bolts that come with the metal pipes. Metal can rust with prolonged direct exposure to water. Make sure that the joints and taps are securely fastened with the help of proper insulation so that there is no water leakage.
4. Installing A Mini Circuit Breaker
Always install a miniature circuit breaker (MCB) if you are installing an electrical water heater within the bathroom. The circuit breaker will automatically disconnect power to the water heater if there is a fluctuation in the voltage. This will minimize the chance of any damage to the water heater due to fluctuation in electricity. Install the mini circuit breaker at a suitable height out of reach of young children but not too high that adults have a problem trying to reach it.
It is recommended to use new plugs and sockets when installing a new water heater. This will prevent the chance of any electrical short circuits from the wiring. The MCB switch is much more dependable in comparison to regular switches. The MCB switch will also ensure that you make savings on your energy bills by cutting off power to the water heater when it is switched off.
Tips To Maintain A Water Heater To Prolong Its Lifespan
Using the water heater according to these tips will help increase the overall lifespan of the product. Cold water flows into the water heater and hot water flows out. The water heater and the pipes are constantly exposed to extreme temperatures which can wear down the water heater and pipes. Implementing these tips will help you extend the life of your water heater and the pipes associated with the water heater.
1. Switch Off The Water Heater After Use
Some households turn on their water heater before the break of dawn to get hot water in the morning. They believe that the water heater needs to be turned on early because everybody will need the hot water in the morning. This might have been true once upon a time, but modern water heaters can easily deliver hot water within five minutes of being switched on. On the contrary, leaving modern water heaters on for extended periods will reduce the overall lifespan of the water heater.
There will be energy costs associated with keeping the water heater on for prolonged periods. You can make energy savings by switching off the water heater after using hot water. Switching off the water heater after use will help prolong the lifespan of the product and keep it running in mint condition.
2. Lower The Temperature By A Few Degrees
Water heaters use energy to provide you with hot water. Heating the water to a higher temperature will use more energy. Heating the water to a higher temperature will also take longer for some water heaters.
Consider lowering the temperature a few degrees to ensure energy savings for your household. You can make energy savings by lowering the temperature a few degrees. Instead of getting extremely hot water in the water taps, you will still get warm water.
The warm water in the taps means there is a lower chance of accidental burns if you have children in the house. Alternatively, you can temporarily raise the temperature if you want to take a hot water bath. It is still recommended to lower the temperature after your special hot moment in the tub.
3. Keep An Eye On The Plug
Your plug will spark when there is a fluctuation in power if you use substandard wiring and power sockets. The pins on your plug will have burn marks because of the higher voltage of electricity. This is because the plug or the wiring of the socket is unable to deal with the sudden surge in power.
4. Perform An Annual Maintenance Checkup
Every water heater will need an annual maintenance checkup. A professionally licensed plumber can check the anode rod for rust, check the pressure release valve, and check for any leakages. Performing this inspection will help your water heater work for a longer time at a higher efficiency.
