Are your home systems ready for cold weather? If your water heater hasn't had a recent check-up, this is a great time to pay attention.
Maintaining your hot water heater tank for winter improves efficiency when you need it most and wards off potential issues caused by cold temperatures.
It's a simple process (really). Just follow these steps, and refer to your system's maintenance guide for more information.
1. Check for Leaks
Inspect the connections and pipes for signs of moisture. Look with your eyes but feel the connections, too. Addressing leaks avoids water damage and energy loss.
Better yet, consider this a reminder to buy a smart water sensor that can warn you automatically of leaks or a potential flood. "These often overlooked, but extremely important, products include smart sensors that can monitor water leaks or flow and electrical fire monitoring devices,” explained Sarah Griffin, Senior Vice President, Nationwide Personal Lines Product and Underwriting.
She shared insights from a recent survey highlighting that 27% of homeowners didn't have water sensors.
"The good news is some insurance providers (like Nationwide) are offering devices like Leakbot for water detection... for no cost to most home policyholders to help catch issues before they become disasters."
2. Lower the Temperature
Consider lowering the temperature setting on your home water heater during the winter. This saves energy. That said, don't set it below 120 degrees. If the hot water temperature is too low, bacteria can grow in the tank.
3. Drain Sediment Buildup
Many homeowners don't realize that sediment builds up every year on the bottom of the hot water tank.
Flushing sediment can improve a water heater's lifespan and efficiency; it can even improve your water pressure!
Open the drain valve and eliminate a few gallons of water to remove built-up sediment.
And if you haven't done this before, first refer to your heater's manual for step-by-step instructions and watch-outs.
4. Check the Pressure Relief Valve
Test the bleed valve, also known as the pressure relief valve to ensure it's functioning correctly.
To do this, lift the valve's lever, and hot water should discharge.
If water doesn't discharge (or if it leaks afterward), you might need to replace the valve.
5. Insulate the Tank and Exposed Pipes
Exposed hot water pipes connected to your system benefit from insulation just as much as your attic and walls. This extra insulation prevents heat loss and ensures the water stays warmer as it travels from the heater to your hot water faucets.
You should also insulate the tank itself, as well as cold water pipes if there's a threat of the home freezing.
We recently covered the future of insulation; Knauf just released its First-Ever Certified Pipe and Tank Insulation with a plant-based binder, making it safer for homeowners and installers alike.
"For homeowners who install insulation themselves, formaldehyde-free formulations mean easier handling, reduced risk of irritation during cutting and fitting, and lower VOC exposure during and immediately after installation," shared Tim Cofran, Director - Marketing & Brand at Knauf.
Do Tankless Water Heaters Need Winter Prep?
Tankless units are less susceptible to freezing issues. Why? Simply because they don't store large volumes of water.
Even so, depending on your climate, it’s wise to keep the following in mind:
- It’s still a good idea to insulate the pipes. This helps prevent heat loss and ensures that the water remains at the desired temperature as it travels through the pipes.
- ALWAYS be checking for stray leaks. Fix any issues promptly. Set up a smart water monitor that alerts you at the first sign of moisture.
- Protect outdoor tankless hot waters. If your tankless water heater is installed in an outdoor location or on an uninsulated exterior wall, protect it from freezing temperatures.
- Choose a Freeze Protection model. Some tankless units come with freeze protection features to prevent freezing in colder climates. If you live in an area with harsh winters, this can provide added assurance.
- Install an anti-freeze kit. In extremely cold climates, you may consider installing an anti-freeze kit specifically designed for tankless water heaters. This kit introduces a non-toxic antifreeze solution into the system to prevent freezing.
- Maintain clear ventilation. Keep your system clear of snow, ice, or debris all winter long. Proper ventilation is essential for the safe and efficient operation of the unit.
- Schedule maintenance. As with all home systems, periodic professional check-ups can ensure that the unit is functioning optimally and identify any potential issues.
When is it absolutely necessary to winterize a hot water heater?
If the home is occupied, you don't have to worry about winterizing your hot water heater; however, if you're a landlord overseeing a vacant property or have a seasonal property that's unoccupied during the winter, make sure your system is ready for the cold.
It's important to properly winterize in the cold winter months to prevent water damage from frozen pipes.
How do I know if my hot water heater is inefficient?
Look for longer wait times for hot water, perpetually lukewarm water temperatures, or higher energy bills. Sediment buildup or a faulty heating element can also cause these issues. A quick flush or maintenance check can often help.
Is it worth switching to a tankless water heater before winter?
Tankless systems can save space and energy, but the upfront cost is higher. If your current tank system is older or struggling, upgrading before winter can reduce energy use and maintenance needs. Just be sure to choose a model rated for your climate.
