Five Ways Weather Can Impact Water Heaters
Water heaters are essential appliances that ensure people have hot water for cooking, cleaning, and bathing in their homes. However, it's often easy to forget these appliances are affected by weather conditions, just like other appliances in your home. Understanding these impacts can help homeowners take the necessary precautions to safeguard their water heaters and avoid costly repairs.
Here are five ways that weather can impact water heaters.
1. Wear and Tear
Over time, water heaters experience wear and tear, which can be exacerbated by temperature fluctuations. If your area experiences extreme temperature changes, such as heatwaves or cold snaps, your water heater's components will be under additional stress. It's essential to check your water heater regularly, especially during these periods, to ensure no parts are worn or damaged. Otherwise, the heater could fail.
2. Thermal expansion
During hot weather, the water in your tank heats up and expands. This expansion can cause the water heater tank to bulge or crack, leading to costly leaks. It's crucial to check the temperature and pressure release valve regularly, which will help prevent internal pressure from building up and causing damage.
3. Freezing
During cold weather, water inside a water heater can freeze if the temperature drops to freezing levels. Water expands as it freezes, which puts pressure on the tank, causing it to bulge or crack, leading to leaks. It's essential to keep your tank well-insulated during the winter months.
4. Sediment buildup
Water heaters can develop sediment buildup over time, especially in areas with hard water. Sediment buildup can reduce the water heater's efficiency, leading to higher energy bills and reduced hot water supply. During hot weather, the water in the tank can evaporate, leaving more sediment behind. Regularly flushing the tank can help prevent sediment buildup.
5. Power outages
Severe weather conditions like thunderstorms or snowstorms can cause power outages, which can impact the function of your water heater. If your water heater is electrically powered, a power outage can cause it to stop working altogether. Gas-powered water heaters can also be affected if there is a disruption to the gas supply. To ensure that you have hot water during a power outage, consider installing backup power or having a backup water heating system in place.
It's easy to overlook the impact of weather on water heaters, but understanding the potential problems that can arise can help homeowners take the necessary precautions. Regular maintenance and care can prevent many issues. In addition, investing in proper insulation and backup power can ensure that your water heater continues to function even during severe weather conditions. By taking these steps, homeowners can reduce the risk of costly repairs and ensure a steady supply of hot water.
To learn more about water heaters, reach out to a local plumber.
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