When winter grips Omaha and temperatures plummet, your water heater becomes one of the most important appliances in your home. From providing warm showers to supplying hot water for washing dishes and doing laundry, a reliable water heater ensures your family’s comfort and convenience during the coldest months of the year. However, the freezing temperatures of Omaha winters can put extra strain on your water heater, making it more susceptible to issues and inefficiencies.
Here’s why your water heater deserves special attention during Omaha’s freezing months and what you can do to ensure it performs at its best all winter long.
1. Increased Demand for Hot Water in Winter
As temperatures drop, the demand for hot water in your home increases significantly. Whether it’s extra-long showers to stay warm, holiday guests adding to your water usage, or running the dishwasher more frequently, your water heater works overtime during the winter months.
This increased demand can put additional stress on your system, especially if your water heater is older or hasn’t been properly maintained. Scheduling a routine service check before the peak of winter ensures your unit is ready to handle the extra workload.
2. Cold Inlet Water Requires More Energy
During Omaha winters, the water entering your home from the city supply is much colder than in warmer months. Your water heater has to work harder and use more energy to heat this icy water to your desired temperature.
If your water heater isn’t running efficiently, this added strain can lead to higher energy bills and slower hot water recovery times. Routine maintenance, such as flushing sediment from the tank and checking the thermostat settings, can optimize your water heater’s performance and energy efficiency.
3. Risk of Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment from hard water builds up at the bottom of your water heater tank. This layer of sediment creates an insulating barrier that forces your water heater to work harder to heat the water. Omaha is known for its hard water, which means sediment buildup can be a common issue for homeowners in the area.
If sediment isn’t flushed out regularly, it can lead to inefficiencies, higher energy costs, and even damage to the tank. A professional water heater service can flush the tank and ensure your system is operating at peak efficiency, especially during the winter months when performance is critical.
4. Potential for Water Heater Breakdowns
The last thing you want during an Omaha winter is for your water heater to break down. Unfortunately, the increased workload and added strain from cold weather can make your system more likely to fail if it’s not properly maintained. Common issues like a faulty thermostat, a worn-out heating element, or leaks can escalate quickly when your water heater is pushed to its limits.
Proactively addressing these potential problems with a professional inspection can save you from an unexpected breakdown during the coldest days of the year.
5. Protect Against Heat Loss
Heat loss from your water heater can become a significant issue during Omaha’s freezing months, especially if your water heater is located in an unheated area like a basement or garage. Exposed pipes and an uninsulated water heater tank can lose heat more quickly, forcing your system to work harder to maintain water temperatures.
Adding insulation to your water heater tank and the pipes leading to and from the unit can help minimize heat loss and improve energy efficiency. A professional plumber can assist with installing these insulation materials safely and effectively.
6. Extend the Lifespan of Your Water Heater
Your water heater is a significant investment, and regular maintenance is key to protecting that investment. By giving your water heater the attention it needs during the winter months, you can extend its lifespan and avoid the expense of premature replacement. Simple steps like flushing the tank, inspecting for leaks, and replacing worn components can add years of reliable performance to your system.
Schedule a Routine Service Check with In-Law Plumbing
Omaha winters can be tough on your plumbing, and your water heater is no exception. To ensure your water heater is ready to handle the freezing months ahead, schedule a routine service check with the experts at In-Law Plumbing. Our experienced team will inspect your system, flush out sediment, check for potential issues, and ensure everything is running efficiently.
