Welcome to Week 25 of the Weekly Home Check

This week, we’re focusing on the key water systems in your home—your water heater, sump pump, and water softener. Let’s make sure they’re all running smoothly!

🚿 Draining Your Hot Water Heater:

Over time, sediment buildup in your hot water heater can reduce its efficiency and even cause damage. Draining the tank helps clear out sediment and ensures your water heater works effectively.

1. Turn off the power: For electric heaters, switch off the breaker. For gas heaters, set the heater to pilot mode. (Note: If you turn it off completely, you'll need to relight the pilot light.)
2. Turn off the water supply: Locate the cold water valve, generally above the unit, and shut it off. Allow the water inside to cool off.
3. Attach a hose: Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
4. Drain the tank: Open the drain valve and allow the water to flow into a drain or outside. Turn on a nearby faucet to allow air into the tank, aiding drainage.
5. Flush the tank: Once empty, turn on the cold water for 10-20 seconds to agitate and flush any sediment on the bottom. Repeat this 2-3 times until sediment is no longer flowing out of the hose.
6. Refill: Once drained, close the drain valve and remove the garden hose. Turn on the hot water in a nearby sink faucet, then turn on the cold water supply at the tank. Let the tank fill. Once there is a steady flow in the nearby faucet, you'll know that the tank is full.
7. Turn On: Finally, turn the water heater back on at the breaker for electric or on the unit for gas.

💧 Test the Sump Pump

1. Check the Power: Ensure the pump is plugged in and the breaker is not tripped.
2. Inspect the Pump: Take off the cover, then look for any visible damage and remove any debris.
3. Test the Pump: Slowly pour a bucket of water into the sump pit until the pump activates. It should pump out the water and shut off automatically.
4. Check the Discharge Line: Ensure water is being expelled outside the house properly and that there are no blockages.

🚰 Water Softener Maintenance

1. Check Salt Levels: Ensure the brine tank is at least half full of salt and add more if needed.
2. Clean the Brine Tank: Once a year, clean the brine tank. Empty it, clean any sediment or salt bridges, and rinse with water.
3. Resin Bed Cleaner: Use a resin bed cleaner to keep the resin beads working efficiently.
4. Inspect for Leaks: Check the unit for any signs of leaks or damage.

Let me know once you’ve checked off this week’s tasks—and don’t forget to update the status of these items in your Home Journal and Log Book!​

EMAILS LINKS

🛠️ Supplies and Materials

Looking for the cleaning products I've used over the past few weeks? Find all my supplies and tools linked below:

• ​Amazon​
• ​Walmart​
• ​Home Deot​
• ​Lowes​

-Kyshawn

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