Checked Your Hot Water Heater Lately?

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

Have you ever heard your hot water heater pop? Is your tap water a brown or rust color? These are just a few indicators that you might need to check your hot water heater! SERVPRO of Dyersburg/Union City has responded to many water heater-related water losses over the years. It is important to remember to inspect your hot water heater at least 2 to 3 times a year for sediment build-up, excessive internal pressure, and rust corrosion. 

Sediment Build-up

If you have ever heard your hot water heater pop or make a knocking sound, you may have a build-up of sediment in your hot water heater. Sediment refers to the compilation of minerals inside your hard water. With time, sediment piles up at the bottom of your water heater tank. This layer of sediment creates an unwanted barrier between the water and the burner element. This problem will eventually force the burner to work overtime and will cause overheating. An excessive amount of overheating will deteriorate the tank. To avoid a build-up of sediment in your hot water heater, you should flush and drain your tank once every year.

Internal Pressure 

Your water heater tank will eventually spring a leak and burst if too much pressure builds up in it. To prevent this from occurring, the tank has a temperature and pressure relief valve. The T&P relief valve’s purpose is to release water, keeping the pressure down at a much safer level. Unfortunately, despite the valve, the extra pressure can deteriorate the tank over the years. Testing the T&P valve a couple of times a year can help alleviate pressure in the tank. Always keep the temperature of your water heater between 120° F and 125° F. If you set the temperature for anything higher than that, the chances of you increasing the pressure in your hot water heater tank are greater. Not to mention, you could scald yourself. 

Rust Corrosion 

If you have ever noticed that your hot tap water is a brown or rusty color, you may be facing rust corrosion. Since water heaters are made of steel, water will cause the tank to rust over time. As an internal rust protection element, a 3-5 foot anode rod rusts in place of the tank. After the rod begins to show signs of deterioration, it signifies to you that your water heater is next. To catch rust corrosion in your water heater, your anode rod should be inspected once every two years. The rod will most likely need to be replaced every 4 to 5 years. If you have softer water, you may have to replace it sooner.