Prepare Your Water Heating System for the Winter

As winter approaches, so do the long hot showers, extra laundry cycles with bulky sweaters and holiday events with guests using up more warm water. It's safe to say your water heater works extra hard in the winter months.

This is why it's so important to prepare your water heater for the chilly months ahead. Neglecting this crucial appliance can lead to inefficiencies, potential damage and discomfort during the coldest days (if you've ever had to take a cold or lukewarm shower in the winter, you know exactly what we mean!).

By taking proactive measures to winterize your water heater, you can not only maintain its performance but also prolong its lifespan. Taking action with a few simple steps this fall may save you money and some cold showers this winter.

Heat Up the Water & Cool Down the Energy Bill

Your water heating system is something you rarely think about, yet you use it daily. It provides your household with hot water for taking showers, washing dishes and doing the laundry. It can also easily account for a fifth of your energy bill.

Here are a few easy steps to help you save money and keep the warm water flowing all winter long:

• Inspect for leaks - As you look over your water heater, inspect it for any obvious damage or leaks. Check around the tank, connections and valves for moisture buildup, corrosion or rust. Addressing leaks promptly can prevent water damage and ensure the heater operates efficiently during winter.
• Insulate the pipes - Installing pipe sleeves is an inexpensive way to make your water heating system more energy efficient. They're easy to install and can be found at most hardware stores. Having well-insulated pipes reduces heat loss and helps prevent freezing during low winter temperatures. We recommend using foam pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape to cover exposed pipes, especially those running through unheated areas like basements, attics or crawl spaces.
• Insulate the unit - Just like the pipes, insulating the unit can also be a game changer. Grab a blanket. (Sorry, your grandmother's quilt won't work.) There are special insulative blankets made for this, and they can reduce heat loss by up to 45%.
• Perform routine maintenance - Over time, sediment can build up, reducing your water heater's ability to heat water efficiently. Be sure the heating elements are clear of any debris by flushing out the system. Follow the manufacturer's instructions or consider contacting a professional plumber at Bradley Mechanical for proper maintenance.
• Close any gaps - Most water heaters are located in basements or near external walls. Cold air may enter through holes or gaps in nearby walls and windows, making it harder for your water heater to maintain temperatures. Simply filling in the gaps with caulk or spray foam insulation can do the trick.

Consider Going Tankless this Winter

Water heaters are an essential appliance to keeping your home running and comfortable. However, they don't last forever. If your water heater has started to experience issues or is simply aging out, consider upgrading to a tankless water heater.

Tankless water heaters last up to twice as long as traditional water heaters and save immense amounts of energy. Tankless water heaters also provide you with:

• Unlimited hot water. Tankless water heaters provide you with unlimited access to hot water as they work by heating up water as needed rather than trying to keep all the water warm all the time.
• Compact size. Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional water heaters, allowing them to be installed in a variety of areas, such as closets, cabinets and mud rooms.
• Wi-Fi capabilities. Many tankless water heaters feature Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing users to monitor and control it from anywhere.
• Intelligent design and convenience. Another significant benefit of a smart tankless water heater is that it learns your hot water usage patterns and can better schedule or anticipate your needs ahead of time.

Ready for Winter

If you're unsure about performing maintenance tasks yourself or if your water heater requires specialized attention, schedule a professional inspection with us before winter arrives. A qualified Bradley technician can identify potential issues and ensure your water heater operates optimally throughout the season.

If your water heating system needs maintenance, repair or replacement, Bradley Mechanical is here to help. We have been serving all of Central Virginia's heating and plumbing needs since 1969, and our experienced plumbers will make sure your system is running efficiently in time for winter. Call today, and "We'll Get You Outta the Fix You're In."