How to Avoid Water Heater Failure During Peak Use

Your water heater works hard all year, but the winter season can certainly put some strain on it. Cold temperatures mean your system has to heat colder water, all while keeping up with the extra demand from hot showers, dishwashing, and laundry. Without proper maintenance, you might be left with lukewarm or no hot water when you need it most.

Fortunately, preventive water heater maintenance can help keep your water heater running smoothly. Here’s how to avoid unexpected failures and ensure your home stays warm and comfortable all winter.

Common Causes of Water Heater Failures in Winter

Winter weather can put additional strain on your water heater, leading to common problems like:

• Sediment and Limescale Buildup – Over time, minerals in hard water accumulate inside the tank, making your heater work harder and reducing efficiency.
• Cold Water Takes Longer to Heat – In the winter, the water coming into your home from outside is much colder than in warmer months. This means your water heater has to work harder and run longer to heat it up to the temperature you’re used to. The extra effort can put more strain on the system, increasing the risk of wear and potential breakdowns
• Increased Demand – More showers, laundry loads, and dishwashing cycles put extra pressure on your system, exposing any underlying issues.
• Corrosion and Component Wear – Mineral buildup from hard water can cause corrosion and weaken your tank over time. If not replaced, key parts like the heating elements, anode rod, and pressure relief valve can also wear out, leading to leaks or system failure.

Ways to Prevent Water Heater Issues

Stop Limescale in its Tracks with ScaleRX

• Columbus is known for its hard water, containing higher levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can accumulate inside your water heater as limescale, reducing efficiency, increasing energy costs, and potentially leading to premature system failure.
• A simple and effective solution is ScaleRX, a limescale prevention system that uses a patented electrochemical process to stop mineral buildup before it starts.

Flush Your Water Heater Regularly

• Why It Matters: Over time, minerals and sediment build-up at the bottom of your tank, reducing heating efficiency and causing noises like rumbling or popping. This buildup forces your water heater to work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan for the unit.
• How Often: Most manufacturers recommend an annual water heater flush, which improves efficiency and keeps your system running smoothly.
• Signs Your Water Heater Needs a Flush:
  • Hot water runs out quickly
  • Strange noises from the tank
  • Water has a foul smell
  • The water temperature keeps shifting between too hot and too cold

Schedule a Professional Inspection

A routine inspection by a licensed Atlas Butler plumbing technician can catch minor issues before they become significant. Our team will check for leaks, test safety valves, and ensure your water heater is in top condition for the months ahead.

By staying on top of regular maintenance, you’ll extend the life of your water heater, improve efficiency, and avoid costly surprises. Atlas Butler’s plumbing team is here to help keep your system in top shape, no matter the season.

Call 1-800-FURNACE or visit atlasbutler.com to schedule your appointment today!