A Water Heater Flush Can Keep the Hot Water Flowing

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Regular maintenance to your water heater can keep water damage from happening

A Water Heater Flush Can Keep the Hot Water Flowing

The intricate systems within your Parkers Prairie,MN, home are easy to overlook. Piping, furnaces, electrical components and more are expected to simply work. The same is true for your water heater. When you turn the hot water on, you expect hot water to come out. Surprisingly, like the other systems, that appliance also needs a little care, especially a water heater flush.

Follow the Sound

As the heater heats cold water, whether through gas or electric, the water being heated often contains sediment and minerals, including calcium and lime. Most heaters have a sediment trap to capture the extra, but that doesn’t completely eliminate the issues. The sediment can start to build up, which will eventually affect the heater’s efficiency. Signs that sediment is becoming a problem often can be heard.

Humming – If it builds on the electric element, vibrations can cause a humming sound.
Knocking – While it might sound scary, your heater is probably OK. This sound often means a pipe is misaligned and banging against walls or your heater. Devices are available to keep the hammering at a minimum.
Screeching – The most typical culprit for this issue is a partially open valve. Check the heather and faucet that is the source of the sound.
Tapping – Modern heaters are designed to not overflow. The valve or heat trap associated with that can make light noises. These sounds can also happen when the pipes begin to cool.

When to Get Help

While a water heater is prone to making noises, if they start to become more evident, it may time to think about the last time it was maintained. Heater’s that are not regularly inspected can eventually not function properly, leading to potential leaks and higher bills. If sediment builds up too much, it can also start coming out of faucets or result in a loss of water pressure or a pipe burst.
Instead of hoping that your water heater won’t cause problems, regular maintenance can keep water damage from happening. If it’s already too late, count on a trusted water damage expert to get your house back on track.