Most homeowners think little of their water heater even though they use it all day. Whenever they rinse a cup in the kitchen sink or wash their hands in the bathroom, they rely on hot water for comfort and sanitation. Nevertheless, those same homeowners often fail to realize their water heater plumbing needs routine upkeep—including visual inspection, component replacement, and tank flushing—to keep it running at its best. Luckily, industry professionals will handle all these tasks and more.

Fairfax, VA, home- and business owners can turn to Hicks Plumbing Service for such needs. A comprehensive service provider, the Hicks team has over 30 years of experience as licensed plumbers and technicians. Our certified and trained professionals handle all work, guaranteeing quality and reasonable rates. Call (703) 803-7466 or visit our website and learn more about our high-quality plumbing options.

Below, we offer some guidance to keep your water heater in good working order:

What Does Your Water Heater Need to Run Consistently and Efficiently?

System tune-ups not only help keep your system working but also avoid costly water heater repair, a common side effect of daily wear and tear. You can ensure your system continues functioning at peak performance by hiring a professional every 6 months to complete the following steps:

Visual inspection
A plumbing professional will first check your water heater for overt signs of damage, corrosion, or leaking. They’ll also inspect all the pipes leading to and from the tank, which should remain dry and sanitary as well as undamaged.

Safety relief valve check
The safety relief valve and emergency shutoff valve must continue working without a hitch. Of all water heater components, these two contain significant problems and catastrophes. A plumber can check these valves and pinpoint any concerns for you.

Water temperature check
Your water heater’s warming components connect to the device’s thermostat. Water at a less-than-ideal temperature may cost you money in efficiency. Nevertheless, Hicks technicians can ensure your system is functioning at an appropriate temperature. Doing so involves checking the burner and pilots are operational and in good overall working order, as they influence your system’s overall safety.

Tank flush
Every water heater’s tank should be flushed routinely. During this process, water drains from the tank’s bottom through a spigot. In doing so, the sediment that builds up along the tank’s bottom can wash out, leading to a significant improvement in the system’s efficiency.

Know When to Call for Help

While routine tune-ups are critical for your water heater’s overall condition, you must also recognize when you need professional services. Stay on top of this task, as doing so can save you time and money. Some common signs that you need to call in a plumbing professional include:

• Your system produces limited hot water. If you frequently run out of hot water, your tank may be inefficient or too small for your home.
• Your tank has no power. The cause may be an electrical or gas problem—either way, call for professional services.
• Your system sounds “off.” It may produce strange sounds, such as a pitched whining noise or a loud, motor-like sound. These issues require inspection and repairs.
• The water coming out of the tank is discolored. Don’t use it, but do contact a professional plumber for repair.
• Your hot water tank uses a lot of energy. You may need to replace it with a new one to save money.

Water Heater Plumbing Repair and Maintenance in Fairfax, VA!

No one likes a cold shower or discolored tap water. To avoid these issues, hire a Hicks Plumbing Service professional for water heater plumbing system maintenance at least once a year. Doing so can help you save money and ensure your Fairfax, VA, home remains comfortable. To learn more about our plumbing and drainage options, call (703) 803-7466 today!