Families rely on their hot water heater to provide a steady supply of hot water for showers, laundry, and dishwashing. But many people overlook the importance of regularly maintaining their water heater to prevent the buildup of sediment.
What is Sediment and Why Does It Build Up Inside Hot Water Heaters?
Sediment is a collection of minerals, sand, and other particles that naturally occur in water. Over time, these particles accumulate at the bottom of your hot water heater, forming a layer of sediment. The most common types of sediment found in water heaters are calcium and magnesium, which are present in hard water.
The buildup of sediment can occur more rapidly in areas with hard water or in households that use a large volume of hot water. Older hot water heaters are more susceptible to sediment accumulation due to the gradual decline in efficiency and performance.
It's not unusual to have some sediment in your hot water heater. It’s a natural byproduct of the water heating process. As the water heats, calcium and magnesium form, eventually becoming sediment particles that settle at the bottom of the tank.
But just because sediment is normal doesn’t mean you should let it stay there and continue to accumulate over time. Excess sediment can eventually require water heater repair in Springfield Missouri if left unchecked.
Here are some of the problems that excess sediment in your water heater can cause and how to address these issues.
Reduced Efficiency and Increased Energy Costs
When sediment accumulates in your water heater, it acts as an insulating barrier between the heat source and the water. Your water heater compensates by pushing itself harder to heat the water, resulting in decreased efficiency and increased energy costs.
A water heater’s heating element is usually located at the bottom of the tank. If there is a layer of sediment standing between the element and the water, it won’t heat the water as effectively as it would otherwise. This results in water that isn’t as warm as it could be.
Limited Hot Water Supply
As sediment builds up, it occupies space within the tank, leaving less room for water. This reduces the overall capacity of your water heater and may lead to a limited supply of hot water, particularly during peak usage times.
Before you think you need a bigger unit, check to make sure that sediment isn’t taking up space in your hot water heater.
Noisy Operation
The presence of sediment in your water heater can cause rumbling or popping noises during operation. These sounds are created when water becomes trapped under the layer of sediment and turns to steam, causing it to forcefully escape.
Damage to The Tank and Other Components
Over time, sediment buildup can lead to the corrosion and deterioration of the tank and its components. This can result in leaks, component failures, and even complete water heater breakdowns.
Shortened Lifespan
Excess sediment in your water heater can significantly shorten its lifespan. As the appliance works harder to heat water and its components become increasingly strained, the risk of breakdowns and failures increases.
Sediment doesn’t always stay put at the bottom of your water heater. When the water gets hot, updrafts of steam are created, which can send sediment particles bouncing around your tank. Over time, the sediment can wear down the lining in your tank, causing rust, leaks, and other damage.
This can lead to water heater repair or water heater installation.
The best way to prevent sediment buildup in your water heater is through regular maintenance. Here are a few steps you can take:
Schedule Annual Maintenance
A professional plumber can inspect your water heater, flush out sediment, and check for any other potential issues. Annual maintenance is the most effective way to ensure your water heater remains in optimal condition.
Install A Water Softener
If you live in an area with hard water, installing a water softener can help reduce the amount of sediment entering your water heater. Water softeners remove minerals like calcium and magnesium, which contribute to sediment buildup.
Drain and Flush Your Water Heater
If you're comfortable with DIY maintenance, you can drain and flush your water heater to remove excess sediment. This process involves turning off the water and power supply, attaching a hose to the drain valve, and flushing out the sediment with water.
Or you can call a professional plumber to take care of this process for you.
Sediment in your hot water heater may be harmless at first. But over time, it can lead to some costly expenses, making your unit work harder for less hot water, slowly deteriorate, and eventually give out entirely, requiring you to purchase a new unit.
Don’t let that happen to you. To prevent these issues and keep your water heater in top shape, it's important to schedule regular maintenance and consider additional measures like installing a water softener.
If you’re dealing with sediment in your hot water heater, other hot water heater-related problems, or any issues with your plumbing, reach out to the professionals here at United Plumbing. We’re available 24-7 to help make your plumbing problems a thing of the past.