The most common method of supplying hot water uses an appliance based on a storage tank. The tank provides a place for heating the water and a way to store the water until it is required. There are two types of storage tank systems. One uses electricity to heat the water and the other burns natural gas or propane. Gas burning models are very effective because they heat the tank from the base. Plus, the heat from the flames and exhaust flow up the exhaust pipe and is transferred through the metal to the water. Unfortunately, these appliances require the occasional Gas Water Heater Repair Baltimore MD.
One reason that a gas water heater fails is a loss of fuel. Fuel to the combustion area must be metered so that it can be shut off when the water reaches a specific temperature. Fuel control systems use a combination of techniques to start and stop the flow of gas. Unfortunately, these controls can fail and force the need for Gas Water Heater Repair Baltimore MD. Once the fuel begins to flow, there must be something to ignite the flame. Some models still use a continuously burning pilot light while others use an electronic ignition system. The use of electronics can improve efficiency, but electronic components can fail.
Not all gas water heater repairs are from a failing system. In fact, every water heater requires some maintenance. If this maintenance is not performed, then problems may arise. One example of this is the safety valve used to prevent the excess pressure inside the tank. This valve needs to be checked to ensure it isn’t sticking. A sticking pressure relief valve could allow the appliance to explode and damage the home or harm the people inside. Experts like those at Farnen Dermer Inc. recommend annual maintenance for all water heaters.
Another reason to consider maintenance for a water heater is the scale that can accumulate from hard water. Hard water comes from minerals in the soil such as lime. As rain and other sources of water percolate through the soil, the liquid picks up these minerals. Once the water gets into the tank and begins to heat, many of these minerals are released. If they are allowed to accumulate at the base of the tank, they can interfere with the heat transfer. Learn more about water heater repair at .