Sediment: Enemy of Your Water Heater's Efficiency
Sediment is a common problem for water heaters. Unfortunately, sediment can damage your water heater, lead to harmful bacteria, and may also reduce your water heater’s efficiency. Luckily, sediment can be controlled, and although in rare instances you may require a water heater replacement, taking care of your heating tank can make a big difference. Continue reading to learn more about sediment and what you can do to prevent it from harming your water heater’s efficiency.
What is Sediment?
Sediment is a collection of several hard minerals that exist in most home’s water supply. Over time, sediment will begin to collect in storage tank water heaters and gradually grow in density. Sediment is sand-like in appearance, and has a similar consistency. If left unchecked, sediment can collect in large amounts and may potentially cause problems for your water heater.
Why is Sediment Bad for Your Water Heater?
When sediment accumulates, it can form a layer of insulation between your heating system’s burner and the water in your tank. This will affect your water heater’s efficiency and will wind up costing you money in the long run. Because sediment slows heat transfer, it can also lead to overheating the tank bottom. Overheating can weaken the tank itself and can cause the steel and glass lining in the tank to degrade. The result is a water heater that will fail to live up to its full potential.
How Can You Prevent Sediment from Becoming A Problem?
Water filtration and conditioning systems can be helpful is reducing sediment build up, but the most effective way of keeping your tank sediment free is routine maintenance. Flushing your water heater routinely is the easiest way to remove sediment from your tank and allow fresh water into your home’s water heating system. Contact a plumber for help properly flushing your water tank.
Peter Levi Plumbing Inc. has an experienced and dependable staff to assist you with all of your plumbing and heating needs. From installation to maintenance and repairs, Peter Levi Plumbing Inc. has you covered. For more information on our plumbing repair and maintenance services, give us a call at (415) 814-6900.
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