You might not think about the inner workings of your water heater too often, but tanks and tankless models each have their own methods for preventing breakdowns or explosions. It’s a good idea to learn about them before they go haywire.
The Anode Rod
Anode rods work by generating a weak electrical current inside the tank. The voltage itself arises from differences between the metals in the rod. The charge provides cathodic protection, and that prevents both the metal tank and the glass lining inside it from corrosion that damages your tank and ruins your water quality.
This rod is also designed to take on any corrosion that may crop up, so professional plumbers always look at it during heater inspections. You should schedule one at least once a year.
Keep Cool With Your Freeze Detector
Without the warm tank of water, tankless heaters are more susceptible to freezing temperatures in winter, especially during power outages. Fortunately, a freezing detection system keeps your heaters running even if your pipes begin to freeze. These systems include sensors that check the temperature in the heat exchanger. If the temperature gets close to freezing, the exchanger automatically shuts off.
While it preserves your water heater, you will be without hot water. Here’s a good tip: Winterize your heater every autumn by flushing it and insulating all the nearby pipes that go into the heater. If you are looking to purchase a new tankless heater, you might want to consider a model with backup power, which keeps it running during a blackout.
The Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
Heading back to tank heaters, they tend to build pressure during the heating process. Water expands when it warms up, after all. They can also overheat water beyond what you have your thermostat set at. When both of them get too high, your temperature and pressure relief valve will open and release water and steam. Without such a release, your tank could potentially explode.
As professional plumbers, we recommend investing in an expansion tank, which can release some of that pressure before the temperature and pressure relief valve gets involved. Otherwise, keep an eye on your heater and monitor any signs that it is leaking.
These are just a few of the special tools that keep your water heater safely running whenever you need hot water. Without them, your heater would break down in the blink of an eye, and your life would be a lot harder. If you live in Wilson, NC or a surrounding area and need water heater services, make your first call to Roberson’s Plumbing & Septic.