Question: Could you please have a column on the yearly maintenance of water heaters? I have a Bradford White water heater that was installed by Pulte in 2006. I have been draining the tank for about 3 to 4 minutes each month. Should I drain the entire tank yearly, and if so, what is the proper way to do that?
Answer: Congratulations you are doing exactly what you should be doing and your water heater will last years longer than if you were not draining some water periodically. Most of the Woodchucks drain about five gallons of water from their water heater two to four times a year.
The reason for this is to flush out scale that builds up inside a water heater through several chemical reactions that are happening between the metals in the tank (the anode and the tank walls) and the various minerals in the water. In the first few years you will see blue crystals when you drain off some water, but later these will be gone.
We have not mentioned this before because unless you start draining when the water heater is new you risk having the scale that builds up inside the heater clog the drain valve and keep it from being fully turned off. This would cause the valve to drip.
Caution, if your water heater is over a year old and you start draining water for maintenance you risk having the valve not fully turn off.
Garage Door
Question: A few months ago we had our garage door opener repaired. The guys that repaired also sprayed the wheels and joints. Now the grease or oil is coming thru the outside of the door revealing spots. I’ve asked others and have been told to use dish soap, goo gone, goof off, etc. with no success. Do you have any ideas?
Answer: The answer to this one is easy; get the company that incorrectly lubricated your garage door to come back and clean your door. They will probably have to repaint it.
Grille tip
If you have a gas grille and the igniter is slow to light the burner or isn’t working at all, try changing the battery. I did this for a neighbor and he was amazed at how easy it was to light his grille.
If you have suggestions for future tips or have questions about maintenance around your home submit them toask.the.woodchucks@gmail.com.
