The first residential water heater was patented in 1868 by Benjamin Waddy Maughan. Since that time, water heaters have become a staple in our homes. We use our water heater everyday to provide us with warm water for personal grooming and cleaning. During this time of the COVID-19 crisis, having warm water is especially important. However, most of us do not give our water heater a second thought until it stops functioning.
The
average tank water heater has a lifespan of only
10-12
years. So
if your water heater is more than 10 years old, it is a good idea to
look at replacing it even before it fails. For those water heaters
under 10 years old, it is a good idea to have a licensed plumber come
in and do an annual check and cleaning. This annual service will
include sediment build up being drained from the tank and the tank
being inspected for signs of impending leaks.
While
we all want to kill germs as thoroughly as possible, setting the
water temperature too high is ill advised. The
proper temperature for a water heater is 120°F. The skin of an average adult exposed to water 140°F
or higher for as little as 5 seconds can suffer 3rd
degree burns- and it takes even less time for children and the elderly to receive 3rd degree burns. Also, a water heater set at 120°F
accounts for about 25% of a homes energy usage. As that temperature
is increased, so is the percentage of energy usage- resulting
in higher gas or electric bills.
If
your water heater needs attention, call A.C. Williams Plumbing and
Heating today at 828-274-7222 to schedule your appointment.
