The most effective facility managers are those that are involved on the ground floor. They know the ins and outs of their maintenance department and know the right questions to ask about each piece of equipment in their building. To help you become more involved in your maintenance department, we want to give you a better understanding of your water and plumbing systems.
The hot water heater is a common source of plumbing problems. Below are the top frequently asked questions we receive about hot water heaters, and advice for how to address these common issues.
Why am I running out of hot water?
Running out of hot water is a serious problem whether you’re at home or at a commercial facility. In fact, this can be even more serious in a commercial space where your business relies on hot water for essential business functions (such as commercial kitchen dishwashers). Water that doesn’t become hot or doesn’t stay hot is a sure sign your hot water heater is in need of repairs. It is likely that the tubing or the motor is damaged, which will only get worse over time. Contact your MaintenX professionals for a thorough evaluation.
What temperature should I set for my hot water heater?
Most commercial hot water heaters come pre-set with an optimal temperature. This can be adjusted by your maintenance team, but typically you should not deviate from the manufacturer’s recommendation. If you have an older system and are unsure of the manufacturer’s recommendation, we recommend a temperature around 120℉ or whatever your onsite MaintenX technician recommends.
Is the water leak serious?
In almost all cases, yes, your hot water leak is serious. Not only could it be a sign of a major maintenance issue, but it is costing you up to 13% of your water bill every month. Don’t let your hot water heater continue to leak once you’ve noticed it — contact your MaintenX team to repair the leak and assess other potential signs of damage.
How can I conserve my hot water usage?
By lowering your hot water usage, you can save big on your overall building expenses. There are many options to reduce hot water usage, including the installation of low-flow faucets and toilets. Scheduling preventative maintenance can also help you reduce buildup which will make your hot water heater more efficient. If you are still paying too much, you might consider installing a more energy-efficient hot water heater.
What hot water heater is right for me?
If you are choosing a replacement hot water heater, you should consult with your MaintenX team to choose the right model. Your current usage, facility size, future water needs, and budget all factor into which model might be right for you. Energy-efficiency is also an important factor to consider if you want to transform your building into a more green facility. For the best advice, ask for a personal consultation from your MaintenX team.
MaintenX is here to help you make sound maintenance decisions every day. TO learn more about our preventative maintenance services, contact us!
