Your water heater is one of the hardest working appliances in your home. If you have a tankless water heater, it powers on every time you need hot water. If you have a standard tank water heater, it is working 24/7 to keep a consistent supply of hot water at the ready.
A water heater is also one of the biggest plumbing investments you will make in your home, so it’s important to make sure it is well cared for. We have already mentioned the importance of flushing your water heater in our fall seasonal plumbing tips, but there is something even simpler that you can do for your gas or propane water heaters.
PRO TIP: Keep clutter away from your water heater
Gas and Propane Water Heaters Need Air
Gas and propane water heaters work by using a flame to produce the heat for the water. Gas and propane are combustible, or highly flammable. And the process of combustion, if we go back to basic science, requires a certain amount of oxygen.
The base of your water heater is where it draws in the air it needs to keep the flame going that heats your water. If this air flow is restricted, your water heater will end up working harder or possibly fail to work at all.
Improving Air Flow Around Your Gas Water Heater
Good airflow is needed in the room that your water heater is installed in. If it is installed in a large open space, you’re already good to go. If it is installed in a utility room or large closet, you may need to be sure there is sufficient airflow into the room. The installation of a vent in a wall or a vented door would likely take care of any ventilation needs.
Remove The Clutter
Many water heaters are installed in utility spaces that tend to accumulate a fair amount of clutter. It is incredibly important that this clutter does not affect the airflow to your water heater. You should keep about a two-foot radius of space around your water heater free of any items stored in that room. You also should never lean anything up against your water heater.
Still Have Questions or Concerns?
If you have any concerns about your water heater, or if it isn’t working as well as you think it should, give Trident Plumbing a call at 540-642-0023 or schedule an appointment online today!
