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Proper maintenance of plumbing systems is essential for safety, efficiency, and longevity. Whether in a residential or commercial setting, three routine maintenance tasks play a critical role in preventing costly repairs and system failure: flushing tanks, checking pressure valves, and inspecting for corrosion. Understanding when and why to perform these tasks can help extend equipment life, maintain performance, and reduce risk.
Flushing a tank most commonly a water heater tank is necessary to remove sediment buildup. Over time, minerals such as calcium and magnesium settle at the bottom of the tank. This sediment accumulation is especially common in areas with hard water.
Sediment buildup can:
Reduce heating efficiency
Increase energy costs
Cause rumbling or popping noises
Lead to overheating and premature tank failure
Reduce available hot water capacity
If left unaddressed, sediment can harden and become difficult to remove, eventually damaging the tank lining and heating elements.
Annually is the general recommendation for most residential water heaters. However, frequency may vary based on water quality and usage:
Hard water areas: Every 6–12 months
High-demand households: Annually
Commercial systems: May require more frequent maintenance depending on load
If you notice reduced hot water output, unusual noises, or inconsistent temperatures, flushing should be scheduled immediately—even if it hasn’t been a full year.
Banging or rumbling sounds from the tank
Discolored or rusty hot water
Reduced hot water supply
Increased utility bills
Routine flushing helps maintain efficiency and prolongs the service life of the tank.
Pressure valves—particularly the Temperature and Pressure Relief (T&P) valve on water heaters—are critical safety components. These valves are designed to release excess pressure if internal tank pressure or temperature rises beyond safe limits.
A malfunctioning T&P valve can lead to:
Tank rupture
Water damage
Scalding hazards
In extreme cases, explosion
The T&P valve acts as a fail-safe. If it fails, the entire system is at risk.
Michael T. Dunn has over 40 years of experience in the plumbing industry. He began his career in 1982 working in new home construction and launched his first plumbing business in 1991. He later worked as a master plumber on the East Coast in four states before relocating to Oregon. In 2006, he founded M.T. Dunn Plumbing LLC, serving Hillsboro and the greater Portland area.
Over four decades, Michael has completed residential and commercial plumbing projects including new construction, custom homes, gas piping installations, service repairs, and complex large-scale systems. His experience ranges from major commercial gas installations to routine household plumbing repairs.
He is licensed, bonded, and insured, and stays current with plumbing codes and technology. M.T. Dunn Plumbing continues to serve Hillsboro and surrounding communities with professional, code-compliant plumbing services.
Our experienced plumbers are here to help with all your plumbing repairs and installation needs.
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