As important as a water heater is to a home, the reality is that most homeowners don’t really think about it. It tends to fall into one of those “out of sight, out of mind” categories. They usually remember it exists only when the water heater displays some sort of malfunction, such as the homeowner running out of hot water in the middle of the shower. However, the water heater, much like any other appliance in the home, requires some attention. While it doesn’t need daily attention and care, it is important that homeowners add preventative water heater maintenance to their seasonal to-do list. One of the tasks that a homeowner should perform is a water heater flushing.
The Importance Of Flushing A Water Heater
Contents
In this article, we discuss some water heater flush advantages that come with flushing your water heater. We also share some of the steps that a plumber will take when performing this service.
What Happens If I Don’t Flush My Water Heater?
In order for a water heater to perform its best, it is vital to remove scale and other mineral deposits that accumulate inside of it. Some of the build-up is due to silt, mineral scale, and other sediments that are found in the local water supply.
Loud Water Heater Noises
Has your water heater ever made a popping, crackling, and banging sound after taking a shower? If so, then you can thank the scale build-up inside of the tank. Although the noises might seem to rectify themselves and go away, the reality is that the layer of scale has solidified to the extent that the water can not percolate through it anymore. At this point, your best bet is to flush and descale the hot water heater.
Slow Water Heating Rate
When you run your HVAC system with a dirty filter, then it can cause a slew of issues. One of these issues is that your heating or cooling system has to work harder to cool or heat your home. This implies that it takes longer to complete the cycle. The same goes for a hot water heater that has foreign material at the bottom of its tank. For example, with an electric water heater, the electrodes are covered with sediment and unable to perform heat transfer effectively. It will take much longer for the unit to heat water to its expected temperature setting. Avoid this plumbing problem by scheduling a water heater flush.
HighWater Heating Energy Costs
As mentioned above, heat transfer is greatly affected by sediment buildup. As a result, it will draw more energy for the water heater to complete its job. You will notice this on your monthly utility costs. Instead, keep your hard-earned money in the bank and call a plumber to flush your water heater.
Shorter Water Heater Lifespan
Since the water heater has to work twice as hard, there is an increase in wear and tear on the system. This results in repairs since various components fall prey to corrosive scale deposits, and the scale acts as an insulating layer between the water and heating source, making it run hotter than it was intended to. With time, this water heater leaks to leaks and a premature replacement of your water heater. When compared to a costly water heater replacement, a routine water heater flush is certainly the more economical option.
Voided Water Heater Warranty
Lastly, you should flush your water heater so that your water heater manufacturer honors the warranty should a problem arise. Unfortunately, most manufacturers do not cover any damage that is due to scale buildup. Therefore, keep your warranty in check by scheduling routine flushes.
How Often Should You Flush Your Water Heater?
Sediment and scale buildup all depends on your municipality’s water quality. Basically, it depends on how high the mineral content is in the area you live in. Another factor is how hot you keep your water and the quantity of hot water your household consumes. With this, it is difficult to generalize how often you should flush and descale your water heater. Your best bet is to call Robinson Plumbing and discuss your water heater maintenance needs with one of our experienced plumbers. Call today to schedule an appointment!
Conclusion
Flushing is an important process that can help to extend the useful life of your hot water heater. Not only that, but it helps increase its energy efficiency and performance. Flushing is simply the process of emptying the tank and descaling it, with the aim of removing mineral deposits that have accumulated over time. If left unchecked, these impurities clog the unit and prevent it from working. Ideally, water heaters should be flushed at least every six months. However, the frequency depends on the area you live in, your water quality, and more.
Call Robinson Plumbing For All Of Your Plumbing Requirements
Contact Robinson Plumbing, one of the most trusted plumbing companies in the Lehigh Valley, for reliable plumbing services. We have lots of plumbing services ranging from water heater repairs and replacements, garbage disposal leaks, toilet repairs, faucet upgrades, water leak repairs, and more. We always give a wide range of solutions when possible for any plumbing repairs. This allows you to choose the best options for your budget and home.
We proudly offer the most affordable and best plumbing services in the Lehigh Valley area. Our plumbers all have the proper licenses and expertise to ensure your satisfaction. All of our work comes with a guarantee. Contact Robinson Plumbing today and schedule your free estimate.
Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or click here to contact us for any questions that you might have!