Water Heater Maintenance Tips for Bonney Lake, WA

Jen Woslager • February 3, 2025

Learn essential water heater maintenance to enhance efficiency and longevity. Find out when it's time to replace your unit with Riser Plumbing and Drain.

Maintaining your water heater is crucial to ensuring its efficiency and extending its lifespan. For residents of Bonney Lake, WA, where the change of seasons can test the limits of your home appliances, staying on top of your water heater's condition can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly replacements. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to maintain your water heater and recognize when it's time for a new one.

Regular Maintenance Tips

1. Check the Temperature Setting

• Keep the temperature setting at 120 degrees Fahrenheit to optimize energy use and prevent scalding. This simple adjustment not only increases safety but also reduces energy consumption, lowering your utility bills.

2. Test the Pressure Relief Valve

• Safely lift the valve’s lever partway to let some water out into the overflow drainpipe. This should be done annually to ensure the valve functions correctly, as a stuck valve can lead to dangerous pressure buildups.

3. Inspect the Anode Rod

• The anode rod prevents rust by sacrificing itself to corrosion. Checking it every three years—or annually if you have hard water—is crucial. If more than 6 inches of the core wire is visible or the rod is coated with calcium, it's time to replace it.

4. Drain and Flush the Tank

• At least once a year, drain a few gallons from the tank to remove sediment that accumulates and reduces the efficiency of your heater. For thorough maintenance, fully drain and flush the tank to clear out sediment completely, especially important in areas with hard water.

5. Insulate Older Units

For older tanks, wrapping them in an insulation blanket can reduce standby heat losses by 25-45% and save 4-9% in water heating costs.

Recognizing When to Replace Your Water Heater

1. Age of Your Water Heater

• The average lifespan of a water heater is about 8-12 years. If yours is approaching this age or older, it’s wise to start considering a replacement to avoid the inefficiencies and potential failures of an aging unit.

2. Rusty Water

• If you notice rusty water coming from the hot side piping in your home, it might be a sign that your water heater is rusting away internally, which could lead to leaks.

3. Rumbling and Noise

• As water heaters age, sediment builds up on the bottom of the tank. This sediment gets heated and reheated, causing it to harden and lead to banging or rumbling sounds during heating cycles—a sign that your water heater may be failing.

4. Leaks

• Any signs of moisture around the base of the tank indicate a small leak or fracture in the tank, often a precursor to a bigger failure.

5. Inconsistent Heating

• If you frequently run out of hot water or the water temperature is inconsistent, the efficiency of your water heater might be diminishing.

Why Choose Riser Plumbing and Drain for Your Water Heater Needs?

For residents of Bonney Lake, WA, Riser Plumbing and Drain offers expert water heater maintenance and replacement services. Our team ensures that your water heater operates efficiently and reliably, helping you avoid the inconvenience of unexpected repairs or replacements.

Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your water heater but also ensures that it runs efficiently, saving you money on your energy bills. Whether it’s time for a routine check-up or a new installation, trust Riser Plumbing and Drain to provide top-notch service tailored to your needs.

Remember, maintaining your water heater is not just about extending its lifespan; it's about ensuring efficiency, safety, and reliability. Schedule your maintenance check with Riser Plumbing and Drain today and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your water heating system is in expert hands.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

How Much Water Does a Dishwasher Use?

March 10, 2025

Did you know that using a dishwasher can actually save more water than washing dishes by hand? Many homeowners believe dishwashers wastewater, but modern models are designed to deliver sparkling clean dishes efficiently. But how much water does a dishwasher use, and what factors affect its efficiency? At Riser Plumbing, we believe in helping homeowners make informed decisions about their water usage. Whether you're considering a newer dishwasher or want to maximize the efficiency of your current one, understanding water consumption is essential. Let's break it down by cycle, model, and efficiency factors. How Much Water Does a Dishwasher Use on Average? The amount of water a dishwasher uses varies depending on the model and cycle. Older dishwashers could use as much as 10-15 gallons per cycle, while newer ENERGY STAR models use as little as 3-5 gallons per cycle. If you’re trying to save water, upgrading to a high-efficiency dishwasher can make a significant difference. At Riser Plumbing, we can help you choose and install a dishwasher that aligns with your water conservation goals. Dishwasher Cycles and Their Water Usage Each cycle in a dishwasher serves a different purpose, and some require more water than others. Here's a general breakdown: Normal Cycle – Uses 3-5 gallons, balancing efficiency and cleanliness. Heavy-Duty Cycle – Can use 7-10 gallons, perfect for greasy or heavily soiled dishes. Eco Mode – Uses the least amount of water, often around 2-4 gallons. Quick Wash – Saves time but may use more water to compensate for the shorter cycle. If you want to save water, choosing the right cycle based on your load size is crucial. Riser Plumbing can provide expert recommendations to ensure you're getting the best performance from your dishwasher. Does a Dishwasher Use Less Water Than Hand Washing? Many people assume washing by hand is the better choice, but studies show otherwise. Washing a whole load of dishes by hand can use up to 27 gallons, while a high-efficiency dishwasher only needs 3-5 gallons. By using your dishwasher, you not only save water but also energy, making it a win-win for your home and the environment. At Riser Plumbing, we help homeowners make smart choices to enhance their home's efficiency. How Newer Dishwashers Help Save Water If you’re still using an older model, you might be wasting gallons of water daily. Newer dishwashers come with features like: Soil Sensors – Adjust the water based on how dirty your dishes are. Efficient Spray Arms – Ensures better coverage while using less water. ENERGY STAR Certification – Guarantees energy and water savings. Upgrading your appliance? Riser Plumbing provides expert installation services to ensure everything is properly set up for maximum efficiency. Benefits of Using a Dishwasher Over Hand Washing Using a dishwasher isn't just about saving water—it also offers other benefits: Time-Saving – Load your dishes, press start, and walk away. More Hygienic – Dishwashers reach higher temperatures than hand washing. Eco-Friendly – Uses less energy and water, reducing your environmental impact. Want to learn more about the benefits of dishwashers? Contact Riser Plumbing for expert advice on improving your kitchen efficiency. Tips to Maximize Your Dishwasher’s Efficiency To get the best performance and save water, follow these simple tips: Run Full Loads Only – Avoid halfloads to maximize efficiency. Scrape, Don’t Rinse – Modern dishwashers clean well without pre-rinsing. Choose Eco Mode – Helps save water and energy. Maintain Your Dishwasher – Regularly check for leaks or clogs. At Riser Plumbing, we provide maintenance services to keep your dishwasher running efficiently year-round. Can a Dishwasher Affect Your Water Bill? Absolutely! A high-efficiency dishwasher can save hundreds of gallons of water annually, which translates to lower utility bills. If your water bill is unexpectedly high, a leaking or inefficient dishwasher could be the culprit. Riser Plumbing can inspect your system and recommend solutions to save water and reduce waste. Make Every Drop Count with Riser Plumbing Your dishwasher can be a powerful tool for saving water—if used efficiently. Understanding how much water a dishwasher uses and making smart choices can help reduce waste, lower bills, and improve performance. At Riser Plumbing, we’re committed to helping homeowners achieve efficiency in their kitchens. Whether you need repairs, installation, or advice, our team is here to provide top-quality services. Contact Riser Plumbing today to learn more and ensure your home runs at peak efficiency.

How Long Does It Take for Hot Water to Come Back After a Shower?

March 10, 2025

Wondering how long does it take for hot water to come back after a shower? Learn why delays happen & how Riser Plumbing can help.

Comprehensive Rooter Services in Enumclaw, WA

By Jen Woslager • February 21, 2025

If you're dealing with persistent drain clogs or sewer backups in Enumclaw, WA, Riser Plumbing and Drain offers expert rooter services to clear even the toughest blockages. Using advanced tools like video inspections, drain augers, and hydro-jetting, our team ensures your plumbing runs smoothly. Don’t wait for small issues to turn into major problems—contact Riser Plumbing and Drain today for fast, reliable service!