What Every DFW Homeowner Should Know About Their Water Heater in Winter

When temperatures drop in Dallas-Fort Worth, your water heater has to work harder than ever. Cold weather can reduce efficiency, increase energy costs and even lead to unexpected breakdowns if your system isn’t properly maintained.

Signs Your Water Heater Is Struggling in Winter

Slow Hot Water or Inconsistent Temperature

If your water takes longer to heat up or fluctuates in temperature, cold weather might be contributing to the problem. When the water being supplied to the water heater is colder than usual, it must work harder to bring it to the set temperature.

Insulating hot water pipes can help reduce heat loss and keep water warmer as it travels through your home.

Rising Energy Bills

If your energy bills skyrocket in the winter, your water heater may be running inefficiently. Cold water takes longer to heat, and an older or poorly maintained unit can struggle to keep up.

You may want to consider lowering your water heater’s thermostat to 120°F. This is warm enough for most household needs while reducing energy waste.

Running Out of Hot Water Quickly

If you notice that your hot showers don’t last as long, sediment buildup could be restricting your tank’s ability to hold and heat water efficiently.

To flush the tank:

1. Turn off the power (or gas supply) to your heater.
2. Connect a garden hose to the drain valve.
3. Drain the tank into a floor drain, bathub or outside until it runs clear.
4. Refill and restart the unit.

If you’re not sure how to flush your tank, or you would feel more comfortable letting a plumber handle it, call Tom’s Mechanical.

Strange Noises Coming from the Tank

Popping or rumbling sounds can indicate sediment buildup, which forces your heater to work harder and shortens its lifespan. Schedule a professional inspection to prevent potential damage.

How Winter Weather Affects Water Heaters

Colder Incoming Water

During the winter, groundwater enters your home at a lower temperature, meaning your water heater needs to expend more energy to heat it.

Increased Hot Water Demand

Families tend to use more hot water in the winter for showers, laundry and dishes, which can strain an already struggling water heater.

Frozen Pipes

If temperatures drop below freezing, exposed water supply lines can freeze, cutting off water to your water heater. Without a steady supply, the unit may overheat or sustain damage if it continues running while empty.

Insulate pipes to reduce the risk of freezing, and during extreme cold, let faucets drip slightly to help maintain water flow and relieve pressure in the lines, which can lower the risk of bursting.

Essential Winter Maintenance Tips for Your Water Heater

Flush the Tank to Remove Sediment

The most commonly recommended frequency for flushing tank water heaters is annually, although homes with particularly hard water might benefit for flushing twice a year. Homes with water softeners may only need to flush once every few years.

Check the Temperature Setting

Setting your water heater too high wastes energy and increases the risk of scalding. The recommended water heater temperature is 120°F for safety and efficiency.

Insulate the Tank and Pipes

Adding insulation helps retain heat, improving efficiency and reducing heat loss.

• Use pipe insulation on exposed hot water pipes.
• Install a water heater blanket to keep tank heaters warm.

Test the Pressure Relief Valve

The temperature and pressure relief (TPR) valve is a safety feature that prevents dangerous pressure buildup. Test it by:

1. Lifting the valve’s lever and letting it snap back.
2. If water flows freely, it’s working. If not, call a professional for inspection.

Consider a Tankless Water Heater

If your traditional water heater is aging, switching to a tankless system can provide on-demand hot water without the risk of running out. Tankless heaters are also more energy-efficient in the long run.

Keep Your Water Heater Running Smoothly

Don’t let winter weather leave you with cold showers! At Tom’s Mechanical Inc., we provide expert water heater maintenance, repair and installation services for homeowners in Arlington and throughout DFW.

Schedule your water heater service today by calling us at 817-277-4493 and keep your water hot all winter long.