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Types of Water Filtration Systems & Benefits

Wouldn’t you like a glass of clean tap water with no funny odor? Safe drinking water that doesn’t rely on trips to the grocery store is now something you can provide for your family. But it shouldn’t be taken for granted. More than one million people in California still don’t have access to safe and affordable drinking water.

Learning all about water filtration systems can help you fight unwanted contaminants. Understanding the different types of water filtration systems and their benefits can help you pick the best one for your home. Let’s see which system best provides clean and safe water for you and your loved ones.

Types of Water Filtration Systems

No part of California is safe from the toxic taps crisis, with approximately 250 public water systems failing to meet basic drinking water standards in 2020. Investing in a water filtration system ensures your family has clean and safe drinking water. Here are the types of filtration systems and how they work.

Mechanical Filters

Mechanical filters can protect against sediment, dirt, and other particles. This method is especially beneficial if your water supply is laden with dirt, sand, or dust. Mechanical filtration is a crucial pre-treatment step, ensuring that subsequent filtration stages are more effective.

Activated Carbon Filters

Activated carbon filters make water healthier to drink by eliminating contaminants, including chlorine, chloroform, and organic substances. They use adsorption, a process where contaminants get stuck to the surface of the activated carbon while water passes through. 

These filters come in several forms, including granulated activated carbon (GAC) and carbon block filters. Each improves water taste and quality by removing unpleasant odors and tastes.

Reverse Osmosis Filters

Reverse osmosis filters stand out for their ability to remove a significant percentage of contaminants, including potentially harmful bacteria and water-soluble substances like fluoride and chromium +6. This filtration method forces water through a semipermeable membrane under pressure, separating fresh water from contaminants. Reverse osmosis is highly effective, making it a popular choice for ensuring the purity of drinking water.

Ion Exchange Filters

These filtration systems soften hard water by replacing calcium with magnesium ions. This helps prevent scale buildup, making these filters perfect for areas with hard water issues. Ion exchange filters should be combined with other filtration technologies to achieve better water purification.

Ultraviolet Light Filters

Ultraviolet light filters are an eco-friendly option for water sterilization. By exposing water to specific frequencies of ultraviolet light, these filters effectively destroy the DNA of bacteria and viruses, rendering them harmless. UV filters operate without heat or chemicals, making them safe and efficient for sanitizing drinking water.

The Purpose of Different Water Filtration Systems

With each type of water filtration system, you can solve unique problems. Let’s explore what you can achieve with each of them:

Mechanical Filters

Mechanical filtration systems efficiently remove larger particles like sediment, dirt, and sand from water, and with their help, you can protect your equipment from potential damage. Furthermore, you reduce your water usage footprint and contribute significantly to the environment. 

Mechanical filters also help prevent illnesses caused by harmful particles by capturing these contaminants, ensuring safer water for consumption.

Activated Carbon Filters

These filters purify the water by extracting chlorine and various organic compounds. Whether granulated or in block form, activated carbon significantly enhances water quality by eliminating odors and improving taste. This makes your water more enjoyable to drink and use in cooking.

Reverse Osmosis Filters

Reverse osmosis filters stand out for their ability to purify water by removing many contaminants, including harmful bacteria and chemicals. This system ensures the safety and purity of your drinking water and offers practical benefits such as not taking up valuable fridge or counter space. 

Moreover, the long-term savings and minimal maintenance requirements make reverse osmosis filters economical for ensuring high-quality water in your home.

Ion Exchange Filters

Ion exchange filters replace calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions. This process softens the water and prevents scale buildup, which helps plumbing systems last longer.

Ultraviolet Light Filters

Ultraviolet light filters ensure your water is free from microbial contaminants. These filters can typically handle even microorganisms resistant to other treatment methods, enabling them to provide superior-quality water.

How to Know Which Filtration System You Need

Selecting the right water filtration system starts with identifying the contaminants in your water, which can be done through a water quality report or a home testing kit. Different filters target specific issues – activated carbon is best for chlorine and organic compounds, while reverse osmosis helps with dissolved solids and heavy metals.

Whole-house filters need less frequent maintenance than faucet or countertop filters, so factor these costs into your decision.

Finally, consider your household’s water consumption. Large families might benefit from whole-house filters, while smaller households could use under-sink or countertop filters. Pay attention to filter lifespan and system capacity to ensure the filter meets your needs without reducing water flow.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

One thing is certain about water filtration systems: they must be properly installed. Here is what you should think about.

Professional Installation vs. DIY

You can choose to install your water filtration system yourself or to have it installed by a professional. Professional installation offers the advantage of expertise and experience, ensuring your system is installed correctly and in compliance with local building codes. 

On the other hand, some people prefer DIY installation due to its potential cost savings. If you’re leaning towards DIY, just remember: you’ll need a good dose of technical know-how, the right tools, and a chunk of your weekend to do it all. 

Regular Maintenance Schedules

Maintaining your water filtration system includes changing the cartridges regularly to prevent clogs and ensure clean water. Cartridges vary in lifespan, with whole-home cartridge filters needing replacement every three to six months, while under-sink systems may last up to six months. Monitoring systems or control units often indicate when a filter change is necessary to maintain a consistent schedule.

Resolving Common Issues

Basic troubleshooting can help you handle some predictable problems with your water filtration system. Slow water flow can often be addressed by checking for clogs in the filter or adjusting the water pressure to the recommended range. 

For problems like bad odor, taste, or leaks, consulting a licensed plumber or water treatment professional may be necessary. If troubleshooting does not resolve the issue or the water quality changes unexpectedly, it may indicate that the cartridges need changing or that a more significant problem exists, necessitating professional assistance.

Final Thoughts on Filtration Systems

Understanding the different types of water filtration systems and their benefits is vital for ensuring clean, safe, and healthy drinking water tailored to your household’s specific needs.

At Elevated Comfort, we specialize in providing quality water filtration installation, HVAC services, and home comfort systems. Our team of technicians is dedicated to giving you excellent service and making your home as comfortable and efficient as possible. 

We pride ourselves on being the best in Santa Rosa and the region, offering personalized solutions and unmatched customer care. Contact us today and discover the best way to filtrate your water.

How to Conserve Water with Your Existing Plumbing

TL;DR: In drought-prone California, water conservation is crucial. Elevated Comfort offers practical tips to save water with your existing plumbing. Adopt smart habits like fixing leaks, shortening showers, and running full loads in dishwashers. Install water-saving fixtures like low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators, and dual-flush toilets. These steps can reduce water usage, lower utility bills, and help the environment. Contact Elevated Comfort to optimize your plumbing for water conservation and contribute to a sustainable future for California.

 

Water is a precious resource that we often take for granted, especially in California, where droughts and water shortages are frequent concerns. With the state’s growing population and the impacts of climate change, conserving water has never been more critical. While many people think that water conservation requires major plumbing overhauls or expensive new systems, there are numerous ways you can save water using your existing plumbing. This guide, brought to you by Elevated Comfort, will walk you through simple and effective strategies to conserve water, save money, and help the environment.

Understanding the Importance of Water Conservation in California

Water conservation is vital for several reasons. In California, it helps to ensure a reliable supply of clean water for drinking, cooking, bathing, and other essential activities. Additionally, conserving water reduces the strain on our natural ecosystems, helping to protect wildlife and preserve natural habitats, which are particularly vulnerable in drought-prone areas.

Using less water also decreases the energy needed to pump, heat, and treat water, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In a state like California, where water and energy resources are closely linked, this is crucial for combating climate change.

With the rising cost of water, conserving it can significantly lower your utility bills. Moreover, water conservation helps mitigate the impacts of droughts and water shortages, making communities more resilient in the face of climate change and ensuring that water remains available for future generations.

Practicing Smart Water Usage Habits

One of the easiest ways to conserve water is by adopting smart water usage habits. Here are some tips specifically for Californians:

  • Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth: This simple action can save up to 8 gallons of water per day.
  • Fix leaks promptly: A dripping faucet can waste thousands of gallons of water over time. Regularly inspect your plumbing for leaks and fix them immediately.
  • Shorten your showers: Reducing your shower time by just a few minutes can save several gallons of water.
  • Use a broom instead of a hose: When cleaning driveways or sidewalks, use a broom rather than a hose to save water.
  • Run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads: This maximizes the efficiency of these appliances and saves water.

Installing Water-Saving Fixtures

Another effective way to conserve water is by installing water-saving fixtures. These fixtures are designed to use less water without sacrificing performance. Elevated Comfort recommends the following options that are particularly beneficial in California:

  • Low-flow showerheads: These can reduce water usage by up to 50% compared to standard shower heads.
  • Faucet aerators: Adding aerators to your faucets can reduce water flow while maintaining good water pressure.
  • Dual-flush toilets: These toilets offer two flush options – a low-volume flush for liquid waste and a higher-volume flush for solid waste, significantly reducing water usage.
  • High-efficiency washing machines and dishwashers: Modern appliances are designed to use less water and energy, providing the same (or better) performance as older models.

Final Thoughts

Conserving water with your existing plumbing doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive, especially in a state like California where every drop counts. By understanding the importance of water conservation, practicing smart water usage habits, and installing water-saving fixtures, you can make a significant impact on your water consumption. These changes not only help the environment but also save you money on your utility bills. Elevated Comfort is here to help you implement these strategies and ensure your plumbing system is optimized for water conservation. By taking these steps, you contribute to a sustainable future for California and ensure that water remains available for generations to come. Contact Elevated Comfort today to learn more about how we can assist you in conserving water and maintaining an efficient plumbing system.

Hot Water, Happy Home: The Benefits of Timely Water Heater Maintenance

A properly functioning water heater is vital for a comfortable home. As the go-to HVAC and plumbing contractor in Santa Rosa, CA, Elevated Comfort understands the significance of regular water heater maintenance. In this article, we explore the benefits of timely maintenance, ensuring you enjoy an uninterrupted supply of hot water and a plumbing system that runs smoothly.

Understanding the Importance of Water Heater Maintenance

Hot Water, The Benefits of Timely Water Heater MaintenanceRegular maintenance is key to ensuring your water heater continues to deliver a consistent supply of hot water. Routine maintenance helps identify and address potential issues early, preventing major breakdowns and extending the lifespan of your water heater.

Professional Maintenance Services

When it comes to water heater maintenance, seeking professional assistance ensures thorough and reliable service. Consider these preventive measures to stave off costly repairs down the line.

Flushing the Tank

Sediment buildup inside the tank can reduce efficiency and lead to corrosion. Flushing the tank removes sediment, improving performance and prolonging the water heater’s life.

Insulating Hot Water Pipes

The Benefits of Timely Water Heater MaintenanceProperly insulating hot water pipes minimizes heat loss during distribution, ensuring hot water reaches your faucets faster and reduces energy waste.

Checking Pressure Relief Valves

Faulty pressure relief valves can cause excessive pressure buildup, posing safety risks. Regular inspections and replacements, if necessary, help maintain optimal safety levels.

Temperature Settings

Adjusting your water heater’s temperature to an optimal range (usually 120°F) reduces energy consumption and minimizes the risk of scalding.

Reap the Rewards: Increased Efficiency and Energy Savings

Regular maintenance not only keeps your water heater functioning optimally but also promotes energy-efficient operation, resulting in cost savings. Timely maintenance allows for the identification and resolution of minor issues before they escalate into major problems, saving you from expensive repairs.

Elevate Your Water Heater’s Performance with Regular Maintenance

Water Heater MaintenanceBy prioritizing water heater maintenance, you create a foundation for a blissful and hassle-free home. With Elevated Comfort’s expertise, you can ensure an uninterrupted supply of hot water, extend your water heater’s lifespan, and maximize energy efficiency. Embrace the benefits of regular maintenance and consult Elevated Comfort for professional assistance in maintaining a reliable and efficient plumbing system.

3 Key Reasons Why NorCal Homes Need Sump Pumps

If you live in Northern California, you know that wet weather and flooding can pose a serious threat to your home. Fortunately, sump pumps are an effective solution for keeping your basement or crawl space dry and free from water damage. At Elevated Comfort, our expert technicians are experienced in providing top-notch sump pump maintenance, installation, and repair services to ensure that your home stays safe and dry. In this article, we will discuss the top three reasons why every NorCal home needs a sump pump, as well as the benefits of regular maintenance and the most common issues that can arise.

3 Reasons NorCal Sump Pumps Are a Homeowner Must-Have

Key Reasons Why NorCal Homes Need Sump PumpsSump pumps are becoming an essential feature of many homes in Northern California, particularly during the rainy season. They are designed to prevent basement or crawl space flooding, which can be costly and damaging to your property. At Elevated Comfort, we understand the importance of having a reliable sump pump in your home, which is why we recommend that every homeowner in Northern California should have one installed. 

NorCal Sump Pumps Protect Your Home from Flooding

Heavy rainfalls can cause water to accumulate in your home’s basement or crawl space, leading to severe flooding and costly damages. A sump pump can quickly and efficiently remove the water before it causes significant harm to your property.

NorCal Sump Pumps Prevent Mold and Mildew Growth

Standing water in your basement or crawl space can create the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. These fungi can pose a serious health hazard, especially for those with allergies or respiratory issues. By installing a sump pump, you can prevent the growth of mold and mildew and maintain a healthy home environment.

NorCal Sump Pumps Increase Your Home’s Value

Installing a sump pump can significantly increase the value of your home, especially if you live in an area prone to flooding or heavy rainfall. A dry, well-maintained basement or crawl space is an attractive feature for potential buyers and can help you sell your home faster and at a higher price.

Common Sump Pump Issues

Reasons Why NorCal Homes Need Sump PumpsWhile sump pumps are incredibly reliable, they can sometimes encounter problems that require repair or replacement. Regular maintenance can help identify and address these issues before they become more severe. Some of the most common issues that can arise with a sump pump include a malfunctioning switch, clogged discharge pipes, or a failing motor. In this section, we will discuss each of these issues in more detail to help you understand the signs and symptoms to look out for.

  • Malfunctioning switch: The switch on your sump pump is responsible for turning the pump on and off as the water level rises and falls. If the switch becomes stuck or fails to activate, your sump pump may not turn on when needed. This can lead to flooding and water damage in your basement or crawl space.
  • Clogged discharge pipes: The discharge pipe is responsible for carrying water out of your home and away from the foundation. Over time, these pipes can become clogged with debris, such as dirt, leaves, or gravel. If the discharge pipe becomes clogged, the water cannot flow out of your home, leading to flooding and other issues.
  • Failing motor: The motor is the heart of your sump pump, responsible for pumping water out of your basement or crawl space. Over time, the motor can wear out or fail, leading to a malfunctioning sump pump. Signs of a failing motor include unusual noises, a burning smell, or a sump pump that fails to turn on.

By being aware of these common sump pump issues, you can take steps to prevent them from occurring and ensure that your sump pump operates efficiently when you need it most. At Elevated Comfort, our expert technicians can provide regular maintenance to help prevent these issues from occurring and address any concerns you may have with your sump pump.

Benefits of Regular Sump Pump Maintenance

3 Best Key Reasons Why NorCal Homes Need Sump PumpsRegular maintenance is crucial to ensure that your sump pump functions properly when you need it most. A professional technician can clean and inspect the pump, test the switch and float, and ensure that the discharge pipe is clear of any obstructions. By investing in regular maintenance, you can prevent costly repairs and keep your home safe and dry.

Elevated Comfort’s Expert Sump Pump Services

At Elevated Comfort, we offer a wide range of sump pump services, including installation, repair, and maintenance. Our expert technicians are available 24/7 to address any issues or concerns you may have with your sump pump. We use only high-quality products and materials to ensure your sump pump performs at its best.

In conclusion, if you live in NorCal, having a reliable sump pump is essential to protect your home from flooding, mold growth, and other costly damages. By investing in regular maintenance and expert services from Elevated Comfort, you can ensure that your sump pump performs at its best and keep your home safe and dry. Don’t wait until it’s too late- contact us today to schedule your sump pump installation or maintenance appointment.

Top Plumbing Repair Calls in Santa Rosa, CA: 5 Common Issues

When it comes to your home or business, few things are as frustrating as plumbing problems. Whether it’s a leaky faucet or a clogged toilet, plumbing issues can cause damage to your property and disrupt your daily routine. In Santa Rosa, CA, Elevated Comfort is here to help with any plumbing issue you may encounter. With years of experience serving homes and businesses in Northern California, Our team has seen it all. In this article, we’ll explore the top plumbing repair calls Elevated Comfort receives in Santa Rosa and the surrounding area.

Top 5 Reasons for Plumbing Repair Calls in Santa Rosa

Top Plumbing Repair Calls in Santa Rosa, CAPlumbing issues can arise at any time, no matter how well-maintained your plumbing system is. From leaky faucets to broken pipes, plumbing problems can cause damage to your property, disrupt your daily routine, and lead to higher water bills. In Santa Rosa, CA, Elevated Comfort has years of experience serving homes and businesses in the area and has seen it all. With Our expert knowledge and state-of-the-art equipment, Elevated Comfort can diagnose and repair any plumbing issue quickly and efficiently, so you can get back to your daily routine with peace of mind.

Leaky Faucets

Leaky faucets are a common plumbing problem that can be caused by a variety of issues. From worn-out washers to damaged o-rings, a leaky faucet can waste gallons of water every day and cause damage to your fixtures. Elevated Comfort’s team of experts can diagnose the problem and repair or replace your faucet quickly and efficiently.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are another common plumbing issue that can cause frustration for homeowners and businesses alike. Whether it’s a clogged sink or a slow-draining shower, a clogged drain can disrupt your daily routine and cause water damage if left untreated. Elevated Comfort uses the latest technology to diagnose and clear clogged drains quickly and effectively.

Running Toilets

A running toilet can waste thousands of gallons of water every year, leading to higher water bills and potential damage to your plumbing system. Elevated Comfort can identify the cause of the problem and make the necessary repairs to help you save water and money.

Broken Pipes

Broken pipes can cause extensive water damage to your property and can be caused by a variety of issues, including tree roots, corrosion, and freezing temperatures. Elevated Comfort has the experience and equipment necessary to repair or replace broken pipes quickly and effectively.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be caused by a variety of issues, including clogged pipes, mineral buildup, and leaks. Elevated Comfort can identify the cause of your low water pressure and provide a solution that meets your needs and budget.

Need Emergency Plumbing Repair? Call a Top Local Contractor

Plumbing Repair Calls in Santa Rosa, CA 5 Common IssuesIn Santa Rosa, CA, plumbing problems can cause damage to your property and disrupt your daily routine. That’s why it’s essential to work with a local plumbing contractor like Elevated Comfort that understands the specific needs of the area. Our team of experts has the knowledge and experience necessary to diagnose and repair any plumbing issue you may encounter. From leaky faucets to broken pipes, we’re here to help. Contact Elevated Comfort today to schedule your appointment with an experienced local plumbing contractor.

5 Signs You Need Drain Cleaning Services

Every homeowner and property owner knows that water, where it’s not supposed to be, can cause serious problems. One of the most common causes of water accumulation is a clogged or partially clogged drain. A clean drain pipe is an efficient drain pipe, and the best way to keep your drain pipes clean is to hire a professional drain cleaning service. But why should you outsource what seems like a simple cleaning task, and how can you tell if a clogged drains service call is necessary? Read on to learn more.

What Is Drain Cleaning and How Does It Work?

Signs You Need Drain Cleaning ServicesCleaning drain lines that are completely blocked is significantly more involved than just wiping down surfaces or using chemicals to dissolve clogs. Instead of using liquid drain cleaner professional services employ a number of tools to bust blockages and clear clogs in your drains and the pipes to which they attach. Professional sewer and drain cleaning specialists may use a plumbing snake, a hydro jet, or more extreme or invasive measures if necessary (typically if a defect in the plumbing has become apparent during the drain clean out service). For example, underground drainage cleaning may be necessary if you need a sewer line repair or sewer line cleaning services. A toilet drain pipe cleaner like a snake might be necessary for sewage-related clogs while cleaning toilet drain pipes.

Benefits of Professional Plumbing Drain Cleaning Services

Professional drainage line cleaning helps keep your home safe from water damage, burst pipes, leaking sewage, and more. In addition, by preventing more severe damage, regular professional drain cleaning saves you money on repairs and construction costs. You should still be cleaning out drains on a regular basis with flushing techniques to keep the clogs from coming back, as well as following common best practices (such as not pouring grease down drains). But having your drains cleaned by plumbing professionals is a maintenance measure that should be factored into your regular maintenance schedule for appliances and systems.

Signs You Need Drainage Cleaning Services

Benefits of Professional Plumbing Drain Cleaning ServicesIf you don’t know how to clean drain lines, how to clean house drain pipes, or how to clean a drain pipe in general, you’re not alone. Most homeowners and businesses, especially restaurants, outsource their drain pipe cleaning to pro drain plumbing companies. When considering hiring a professional for drain cleaning how to tell your drains are clogged is an important skill. Here are five signs you need professional drain cleaning.

Bugs

Let’s face it, fruit flies and other bugs are a real nuisance. They often seem to appear overnight, and they’re much harder to get rid of than they are to attract. Surface cleaning drains regularly is an excellent preventative measure, but there’s only so much that you can do without the proper equipment. If you notice more fruit flies than usual, it is likely due to the food waste building up in your drain. The only way to get rid of them and keep them from coming back is to call for professional plumbing and drain cleaning services to clean what you can’t reach.

Standing Water

Do you have trouble with puddles of stagnant, dirty water stuck in your sink or washing machine? Standing water is a huge red flag that something is amiss with your plumbing and professional drain services are in order. This means there is likely a plug of hair, fat, or other debris in one of the drains that will need to be removed. In a shower, it’s typically from hair from our heads, kitchen sinks are usually fat-based, and toilets—let’s just say that other gunk has accumulated over time. Clogs prevent water from going down the drain, causing standing water puddles to form and possibly leading to a flooding experience. If water won’t flow out of your house, clean your drain.

Gurgling Noises

Be sure to pay attention to what you hear and see when water goes down the drain. You may see bubbles or hear something like gurgles coming out of it; that’s because there’s a clog somewhere in your pipes, which is causing air to rise back up as the surface tension breaks. This usually means you have a partial clog, but it will get worse over time if not treated and removed by a professional drain cleaner.

Frequent Clogging

If you find yourself with clogged drains that keep coming back, you’re probably not clearing the clog all the way. This means the partial debris plug from each clog is getting pushed further into your line and further out of reach while you spend a fortune on liquid drain cleaner and still have sluggish drains. Plumbing clogs can be incredibly frustrating, and it’s best to call us before your pipes become fully compacted which can lead to damage and costly repairs.

Unpleasant Odors

Santa Rosa Drain Cleaning ExpertsOne of the leading causes of smelly pipes is food or grease that is clogging up the waste line. Waste and sewage can build up in plumbing lines as well, forcing a pungent odor into your home. These smells can be avoided by enlisting a professional to clear out your pipes so that you don’t have to worry about them again. If something rotten is reeking up your home, give the drain cleaning professionals at Elevated Comfort a call.

Note: The smell of gas is an emergency. Evacuate your home or property and call your gas company ASAP.

Santa Rosa Drain Cleaning Experts

When you need to get your drain clean service performed by expert plumbing technicians can turn a nightmare into a pleasant experience. For those outside our service area, simply type “drainage pipe cleaning services near me” into your favorite search engine to find a reputable and reliable plumber in your neck of the woods. For homeowners in Santa Rosa, CA and the surrounding areas, Elevated Comfort has you and your drains covered with decades of professional experience and the right tools for every job. Call today for drain cleaning services you can count on!

Behind the Scenes in Plumbing: How to Flush a Water Heater

It’s that time of year again – it’s hot, and you’re probably thinking about ways to cool down. But have you thought about your water heater? Annual maintenance is an important part of keeping your home running smoothly. In this behind the scenes plumbing tutorial, Nick explains the best practices for flushing a water heater during annual maintenance.

How Often Should You Flush a Water Heater?

The tech featured in the video above is Nick. With elevated comfort plumbing, heating, and air today we’re going to talk about doing a water heater flush, anode rod check, just a safety inspection should be done yearly. Once a year, every year this is a 40 gallon American standard. First things first we want to figure out how old this system is. You know usually you can tell by the model number. Any technician should be giving you that information.

Plumbing Behind the Scenes: Step-by-Step Water Heater Flush

First, we’ll shut the water down to the water heater. This is our domestic cold water inlet. From there, what we do is shut that guy down. We’re going to hook up a standard garden hose to the drain valve and drain it out. This will allow us to descale the tank itself. Getting the most minimal amount of calcium, sand, and debris out of the tank is something that you want to do from the first year it’s installed. If you wait 10 years and then try to do it, it’s not really going to do anything for your system.

Once that’s all descaled, we come over to this system. This system has a hex head style anode rod inside the unit. The anode rod is magnesium with city water, and their zinc with well water. Otherwise you start getting that rotten egg smell. So for this system, in particular, city water application is a magnesium rod. Now there are two places these can be on this system: on a hex style or a nipple style. You know, some of the older systems have a hex style, and others have a nipple style. Your plumber will be able to determine where the anode rod is located in the tank.

In this case, we’re going to use a big impact wrench with a socket that’s 27 millimeters to unscrew the rod. It should just unthread out of there. This one is missing for some reason – it has half the rod going – but it should be about the length of the tank, going all the way down to right above the burner. What this does is it attracts calcium and sediment minerals and debris things like that. Hard water can cause these systems to overheat, so it’s important to swap out the filter every two to four years.

Behind the Scenes Tip: Flush Often for Stable Temps

So if you are a household that is constantly turning up the temperature on your water heater, you know that every year or every six months it’s probably because you haven’t had it looked at in a while. It is very important that your plumber and you work together to make the best judgment on whether one of these needs to be replaced or if the tank is long gone and needs to be replaced entirely, or if you can put a new anode rod in it. If your inner rod looks good, it just needs to be wiped clean; it may have another year or two in it.

Then, you throw it back in and cinch everything down after that process. You know we’re sure there’ll be questions involved but your plumber’s going to get rid of the hose close up that bib and slowly fill this guy back up releasing air either out of the TMP valve if it’s new enough or through a inside fixture like a bathtub or something like that. So once that’s all done, your system’s good. You kick it back to 120 degrees and give it 30 to 45 minutes – that is your water heater flush.

Why Start at a Bathtub?

The reason why we want to start at a bathtub instead of a kitchen faucet is because if there is any sediment minerals inside of the tank, we don’t want to stir it up and suck it through the faucet. We always want to go to a bathtub or something with a big amount of water that comes out – this is your water heater flush. Hopefully this is helpful, like we said, with a system like this or a process of how to maintain these- it’s like a car, right? You have to change the oil, rotate the tires, and clean the air filters. We ask so much of these things every day – to give us hot showers after a long day, to be sanitary when we’re washing our hands, and to do dishes – that we have to take care of them.

Want More Behind the Scenes HVAC and Plumbing Tips?

Our channel features weekly tune-up tips and more. However, maintenance is always the best behind the scenes secret that we can pass on, it’s the difference between six years of use letting it sit or thirteen to fifteen years if you take good care of your equipment. Number one: a good manufacturer and a homeowner that knows how to take care of their equipment are very important. We have a monthly plan for nineteen dollars a month. It’s something that we come out and do for you, which is really cool. Hopefully that’s helpful, guys. Thanks for reading and have a good day!