How Winter Affects Your Water Heater: Preventative Tips for Roanoke Homeowners

Winter is officially setting in, and homeowners across the country are preparing their homes to take on the roughest of conditions. However, one part of the home that often goes overlooked in these anticipatory routines is its water heater. Since winter weather can affect your water heater’s performance, knowing how to prevent issues is essential. 

Why Does Weather Matter for Water Heater Performance?

Frigid temperatures make your water heater work overtime. The water entering the heater will be colder, so more energy will be necessary to heat it to the proper temperature. That increased workload could lead to more wear and tear, reducing the lifespan of your unit and making malfunctions more likely. It’s even more challenging for it to keep up with your needs if your heater is in an uninsulated area, like a garage or basement. 

Preventive Tips to Ensure Better Water Heater Maintenance in Roanoke, VA

With all of that in mind, here are some ways that regular water heater maintenance in Roanoke, VA, can help you keep your hot water flowing all winter long:

Insulate Your Water Heater

Water heaters often live in drafty or colder parts of your home. As such, something like a water heater insulation blanket can help it retain its heat so it works efficiently throughout the season. 

Check Your Settings

Most professionals generally recommend setting your water heater to around 120 degrees Fahrenheit, but you might want to bump it up slightly higher during winter. Don’t set it too high, of course, as doing so can make using hot water too costly and potentially painful when washing your hands or showering.

Consider Professional Maintenance

Homeowners can perform basic upkeep tasks, but scheduling professional water heater maintenance in Roanoke, VA, is still highly recommended. Licensed technicians can spot things you might gloss over and perform repairs or adjustments to ensure your system is winter-ready

Warm Water When You Want It With Aqua Clear

Winter can be a hard time for your water heater, but with the right maintenance from a contractor like Aqua Clear, your system will be ready to endure any kind of weather. Reach out to us today to learn more about our preventive maintenance options.