5 Basic Tools For Water Heater Maintenance
A water heater is important in every household. So, it is necessary that you will take care of it and ensure it will continue to serve its purpose. Just like any other thing water heater needs maintenance for it to last in the expected lifespan. To make this possible, you want to make sure your water heater runs smoothly by conducting water heater maintenance regularly. With just a few basic tools at your disposal, you can keep your water heater in top condition. If you want to avoid costly repairs or replacements and enjoy reliable hot water for years to come, you need these basic tools for water heater maintenance. Here are the basic tools that will give you a hand to ensure your water heater continues to operate efficiently. Go get your toolbox and see if you have the following.
Ratchet Wrench and Sockets
Regular maintenance of water heaters is necessary to prevent mineral accumulation, corrosion, and other problems that could result in expensive repairs or replacements. All water heaters have anodes that are designed to corrode and protect the water tank from rusting. However, these anodes deteriorate over time and need to be replaced. To remove these anodes quickly, you will need a ratchet wrench and sockets. These tools enable a secure grip on hex-head components, preventing damage and making it easier to loosen tight components necessary for maintaining your water heater at its optimal condition.
Adjustable Pliers
With adjustable pliers, you can easily turn off the water supply to your water heater by using the shut-off valve located near the top of the tank. This is crucial when performing repairs or maintenance. Additionally, adjustable pliers can help you remove and tighten drain valves situated at the bottom of the tank, making it easier to drain and clean the tank. But that's not all! These handy tools also help you loosen and tighten the nuts that secure the gas and water supply lines to the water heater. This is especially necessary when you need to replace or repair supply lines.
Basin Wrench and a Crescent Wrench
If you're looking to replace standard plastic drain valves on your water heater, you'll need a basin wrench and a crescent wrench. These tools work together to provide an uncommonly useful combination for removing stubborn valves that have been in place for a long time. A basin wrench is a tool with a square shaft and adjustable jaws that lock onto the plastic drain valve. The jaws grip the valve as close to the tank as possible, providing a secure hold for turning the valve. You'll use the crescent wrench to turn the basin wrench, applying the necessary force to remove the valve without causing any damage.
Pipe Wrench
When it comes to removing or tightening pipe nipples, there's no better tool than a trusty pipe wrench. This versatile tool can also come in handy for tightening a curved dip tube or combo anode on your water heater. However, it's important to note that some pipe nipples may be made of unlined galvanized steel, which can rust on the inside and lose its structural integrity over time. If you're dealing with a rusty pipe nipple, be sure to exercise caution to avoid snapping it off. Are you tired of dealing with cold showers and unreliable hot water in your home? Look no further than Water Heating Direct! We understand the importance of a functioning water heater in your daily life and are here to provide you with a reliable and hassle-free solution for all your maintenance needs. So why wait? Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can simplify your water heater maintenance needs.