Hard Water Deposits | Water Heater Repair Fort Worth
Water with a high mineral content is called hard water. Hard water deposits build up in the water heater tank and left untended, can result in the need for water heater repair in Fort Worth. Mineral content settles on the bottom of the hot water heater where it accumulates over time.
Eventually, it creates an insulating layer where the burner (in a gas fired water heater) must heat through this extra layer of sediment to heat water, driving the energy bill up, and causing malfunctions that will lead to hot water heater repair in Fort Worth.
Furthermore, the presence of sediment can lead to the water heater overheating; this in turn may lead to the breakage of the glass lining in water heaters so equipped. A ruptured glass liner will result in a leaking hot water heater.
Overheating in the presence of a failed high temperature control can also lead increased pressure. An excessively elevated pressure may result in the bursting of pipes, breakage of the glass liner or activation of the pressure release valve, draining the hot water away. Any of which, results in the need for hot water heater repair in Fort Worth.
In an electric hot water heater, the heating elements are inside of the tank, where they heat water. The lower element is especially vulnerable to sediment buildup, which can in time encase it. The heating element must heat the sediment encrusting the element, before it can heat water. This build up not only impairs the heating function, but eventually will lead to the elements failure, and the need for water heater repair in Fort Worth.
Locations with hard water are best advised to always purchase a glass lined water heater. Otherwise, the acidic content of hard water will cause premature failure of the hot water heater by eating away the protective coating inside a metal tank that lacks a glass lining.
Flushing the Water Heater
Routine flushing of the hot water heater will help to prevent the damage and premature failure of water heaters. If your water heater has not been flushed in some time, a complete flushing is in order. Once this is complete, draining as little as 2 quarts every 3 months from the drain valve will prevent the build-up of sediment deposits. Otherwise provide a full flush at least once per year or as directed by the manufacturer. Persons with extremely hard water may need to flush the tank bi-annually, or stick to a 2 quart flush every 2-3 months after fully flushing the tank the first time. If you are uncomfortable, or unable to provide this water heater maintenance our plumbers will provide it for you. We also provide professional water heater repair in Fort Worth.
Homeowners can slow the build-up of sediment by maintaining the water heater at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. A temperature any higher will promote a more rapid build-up of sediment, while any lower temperature will allow the growth of dangerous bacteria in the tank
Replacement of the Anode Rod
The anode rod (also called the sacrificial rod) provides rust protection of a tank, thereby extending the hot water heaters service life. If your home has a water softener and uses salt, the anode rod may corrode more quickly. Maintain 50-120 ppm of hardness to slow this process down. However, the homeowner needs to be aware that you should not soften to zero to avoid an increased frequency of anode rod replacement and water heater repair in Fort Worth.
If you see water with brown staining you may have a rust problem, as well as the anode rod will require replacement with hot water heater repair in Fort Worth.
Providing a Hot Water Heater Flush
1. Turn off the power or gas to the heater. For electric water heaters, there should be a breaker in the home’s electrical service panel labeled for the hot water heater. Switch it to “off”.
2. Close the cold water supply valve. It is typically located at the top of the water heater.
3. Connect a garden hose to the drain valve located near the bottom of the tank. Place a thick towel on the floor under the connection in the event it leaks. Run the hose outside to drain the water. Ensure the hot water does not drain onto persons, pets or plants.
4. Open the drain valve to allow the water inside the tank to drain. Take note of the amount of sediment that is drained.
5. Once the tank has emptied, remove the garden hose, carefully holding it up to avoid hot water draining onto you. The close the drain valve and open the cold water supply valve. Turn on the power or gas back on.
Preventing Hard Water
The prevention of hard water is the best means of preventing damage to appliances, such as the hot water heater. The homeowner’s options are a water softener, a whole house water filtration system, and reverse osmosis systems. If you would like further information on the prevention of hard water, we will be happy to discuss the options and assist you in determining the best option for your home.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing provides licensed plumbers with the expertise and experience to provide full plumbing services including hot water heater repair in Fort Worth. Give us a call, we will be glad to provide prompt assistance. We are a member of the BBB, and back all of our work with our 100% satisfaction guarantee.