Water Heater Sediments – The Causes & Solutions

Do you know, sometimes there is something else other than common plumbing problems, behind a malfunctioning water heater?

If your gas or electric water heater is not showing up well, one reason could be the sediments accumulation at its bottom. These sediments are comprised of different kinds of solid materials that set at the bottom. It may be dust, sand or debris coming from the water mains or your well, or it can be the minerals like calcium carbonate, which precipitate in water at elevated temperatures.

Why do these sediments form?

The sediments that accumulate in the water heater heavily depend on your home’s location. If you are living in the area having filtered water supply that provides naturally soft water with minor mineral content, then you have very little chances of sediments build-up. In the opposite cases, your water heater is highly prone to have sediments with time.

Are water heater sediments harmful?

You will be relieved to know that little quantity of sediment settled at your water heater’s bottom is affordable and rarely causes any serious problem. However, the large build-ups lead to following unfavorable conditions:

• A dense sediment layer displaces water, reducing the quantity of hot water to be used.
• High sediment concentration can clog drain valve and also effect the water heater’s efficiency.
• The sediments in gas water heater slow down the speed of heat transfer, overheating the tank bottom. The overheating greatly weakens steel and lining of the water tank.
• In electric water heater, if sediments block bottom heating component, it may overheat and breakdown. Entering the water circulation, it effects valves and pumps.
• Sometimes, popping is also heard due to sediments, as well as sounds like water bubbling.

What are the solutions?

• Periodic Flushing

Usually, frequent flushing of the water heater is recommended by experts to avoid significant sediment formation at the bottom. The flushing frequency is largely based on the amount of debris accumulates. Again, it depends on your location and city’s water supply. Many households might need to do it in every 3 months, while others once a year.

• House Filtration System

If the sediments are coming from the well or water main, you can install a whole house filtration mechanism since it reduces the accumulation of sediment and helps extend the life of plumbing appliances and fixtures. Hire a  recommended plumber in Singapore for consultation and water heater installation.

• Brass Ball Valve & Hose Adaptor

If you are faced with the situation where frequent flushing is required, replacing the valves with full-bore brass ball valve is a smart solution. In addition, a hose adaptor can be installed on it for easy and quick flushing or draining.

• Water softener

If your city’s water supply provides hard water, installing a high-quality water softener can help neutralize the incoming supply, to a great extent.  Consult a pro contractor for water softener and conditioners installation.

Conclusion..

The accumulation of sediments in the water heater is not DIY project since it requires technical expertise and careful handling of the heating equipment. Our plumbing services Singapore help you overcome this problem by providing above mentioned services.