Gas Water Heater Maintenance and Review

We've previously discussed maintaining your electric powered water heater.  Now, let's look at the natural gas or propane heater. They're also easy to maintain and should be looked at twice a year. This checklist is similar to the electric version with the exception of viewing the venting at the top and the burner plate area at the bottom interior of the tank. You will want to print out the electric checklist  prior to starting your gas maintenance inspection. For gas heaters, before you begin any maintenance, ensure you do NOT smell unburned natural gas. If so, cease immediately what you are doing and call your utility company.

Here are the additional steps when dealing with gas water heaters:

• To check exhaust venting at the top of the heater, carefully light a match and slowly position the flame next to the draft hood. Observe the flame to see if it is being drawn into the vent. If not, or if being pushed away, this is a sign of down drafting and service needs to be called.
• Next, note temperature control setting and adjust control to it's lowest level turning off the water heating operation. Remove the lower access panel exterior cover. You may also need to remove an interior cover, sometimes covered with insulation. Use a pair of pliers as these covers are hot.  Do not put any part of your hand inside the unit.
• View the inside of the bottom of the appliance looking for rust, corrosion buildup, or leaking. If buildup is found, you most likely have an aging tank and need to consider budgeting for replacement. If leaking, tank will need service and probably replacement as well.
• Return covers to their original positions and return temperature control to original setting.

You're done! Again, before you begin, become familiar with this basic diagram of your gas water heater. I've created a link. Just click here.