What Should You Do About Sediment In the Water Heater Tank?

Sediment buildup is a common problem amongst homeowners who own water heater tanks. It accumulates over time, which can cause you to incur high water heater repair costs if not fixed as early as possible. In this blog, Oak Plumbing shares a look at the causes of this issue and what can be done to fix it.

Causes

Water heater sediment is composed of minerals that are naturally present in the water. Water with high mineral levels is known as hard water, which when used for bathing prevents soap and detergent from forming suds. These minerals are separated from the water when heated, along with substances that don’t dissolve in water, where they then collect at the bottom of the tank.

The presence of sediment in the water tank makes it take longer for the water to heat up, which can prevent it from being fully heated. Sediment  can also cause discoloration, and may even make the water smell bad. You might also hear popping or rumbling noises coming from the tank.

Effects

Sediment reduces the water heater’s heating capabilities. In addition to increasing its heating requirements—increasing energy consumption and the risk of overheating—it also makes the water temperature favorable to bacterial growth. If the water has an odor, this means it’s already contaminated. Sediment may also clog the drain valve, which can make it difficult to clean the tank. This can result in unplanned repairs that may cost more than a clogged sewer line repair.

How Sediment Is Removed

If you notice any of the signs described above, call a plumbing professional to flush out your hot water tank. While the bulk of the process does involve draining the water tank, it’s not as simple as it sounds. For one thing, every precaution must be taken to prevent flooding, as flush valves and other components that may have been damaged by accumulated sediment or overheating can cause flooding. Professional plumbing companies have the tools, experience and know-how to make sure the cleaning process is completed as quickly and uneventfully as possible.

Have you been searching online for information on water heater replacement costs and other plumbing services? If so, call Oak Plumbing at (707) 448-3567 or (800) 397-3799, or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Benicia, CA, and nearby areas.

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