Servicing your hot water heater will ensure a long and dependable life

Whether you are using a gas hot water heater or an electric hot water heater, its a good idea to have it serviced regularly, preferably by a qualified plumber. A qualified plumber will have not only the necessary tools but years of knowledge which will ensure things are done right,  but you can help by doing a routine inspection regularly. This may well save you money and  inconvenience. There is no better way to insure that your hot water heater is in safe and in good condition than to schedule an inspection by one of our experienced plumbers (Just call the number at the top of the page and chances are that the work will be done the same day you call) But if you want to learn more about your water heaters or if you want to do these inspections yourself read on.A simple inspection might go like this:If your tank is easily accessible you are one step up, and now you need to make sure that your anode is in good condition, that there is little or no sediment in the bottom of the tank and that your pressure relief valve is functioning properly. If your water heater is inside your home you might want to make sure that it sits on a drain pan with a drain line so that if there is a leak it won’t flood you house or garage.If you have the slightest doubt of your ability, get a professional. People sometimes complain about plumbers charges, but what you’re paying for is a truckload of expensive and specialized tools with someone who knows how to use them.First off make sure how old your heater is (when you call the plumber he will probably ask this). Dig up that old receipt or look at the label to see how old it is – you may be surprised. Then have a look at the outside of the tank (remember to shut off the gas or electric supply first) Shine a flashlight inside, onto the roof of the chamber. What does it look like? If the tank is still good you won’t seem much except maybe some white marks from condensation.If the tank is on its last legs, there will be signs of heavy rusting and pitting around the flue, rust flakes on and around the burner, and marks of water having run down the sidesBeyond this point the inspection of a gas heater will be somewhat different than that of a gas heater so we have provided separate pages for each, click one of these links for more information on Electric Hot Water Heaters and Gas Hot water Heaters.”