Nothing can get your day off on the wrong foot like stepping into the shower only to find that there’s no hot water. A problem with the water heater is the most likely reason this happens.
Unfortunately, for many homeowners, the water is out of sight, out of mind until something goes wrong. At Complete Comfort Heating, A/C & Plumbing Repair, we provide expert water heater repair in Carmel, IN, and often discover that sediment is the source of the problem. Knowing how to remove sediment from water heaters and when to do it can make a big difference to the appliance’s reliability and longevity.
What Is Water Heater Sediment?
You may not realize it, but your Carmel home’s water supply contains small particles of rust, dirt, minerals, sand, and clay, regardless of whether it comes from the municipal facility or a private well. Even with modern filtration systems that can remove a majority of contaminants, mineral deposits on the inside of pipes and issues like leaks or water main breaks can allow them into your home.
When they do, they can get into the water heater, fall to the bottom of the tank, and accumulate over time. Unless you invest in regular maintenance and water heater cleanup, sediment will continue to build up and eventually cause problems with the water heater, especially in an area like Carmel that has fairly hard water.
When Should Carmel Homeowners Flush Their Water Heaters?
Sediment can spell big trouble for a water heater, so plumbers prioritize flushing water heaters when they perform annual maintenance. In most cases, sediment buildup removal only needs to occur once a year to prevent problems, but if you don’t know how to remove sediment from water heaters, that can be a challenge.
But before we discuss sediment removal techniques, how do you know it’s time to tackle this important home maintenance task? There are some surefire signs to watch for.
Unusual Noises
If the water heater makes bubbling, popping, or hissing sounds, that’s a good sign that there’s excess sediment in the bottom of the tank. When minerals accumulate on the heating element, it can get excessively hot and cause the sediment to burn, creating these noises. The water under the elements can also start to boil, creating steam that causes strange sounds.
Poor Water Quality
Sediment at the bottom of your Carmel water heater can affect the color, smell, and taste of the water supply. You may notice cloudy or rust-colored water or a metallic odor and taste when it’s time for water heater care. Not only does this make the water unpleasant for drinking and bathing, but discoloration also indicates corrosion that can cause a complete failure.
Insufficient Hot Water
When sediment settles in the tank and coats the heating element, it can prevent the unit from adequately heating the water or heating enough water for your needs. You might find that the water doesn’t get as hot as it used to, that you run out of hot water quickly, or have to wait a long time for the water to reach your desired temperature. Eventually, this can lead to breakdowns or leaks.
Higher Energy Bills
Even an energy-efficient water heater with sediment buildup has to work harder to produce hot water, which uses more power and drives up costs.
How To Remove Sediment From Water Heaters
If you determine your water heater has accumulated sediment, how do you get rid of it and protect the appliance? If you’re wondering about how to remove sediment from water heaters, you have a few options.
The easiest way is to schedule professional maintenance that includes a flush. This ensures complete removal and helps preserve the unit’s efficiency. Professionals use multiple techniques, including wet/dry vacuuming and chemical descaling.
If you prefer a DIY approach to water heater cleaning, it’s possible to clean the tank yourself. After disconnecting the power supply and allowing the stored water to cool, hook up a hose to the drain valve and run it to a place that can accommodate the many gallons of water. Open the valve and allow the water to drain; once it runs clear, close the valve and turn the water supply and power back on.
Get Help From Carmel’s Water Heater Experts
Flushing the water heater yourself can help remove most of the sediment, but for a more thorough clean, turn to Complete Comfort Heating, A/C & Plumbing Repair for water heater services. Our experts know exactly how to remove sediment from water heaters and will provide additional heater maintenance tips to ensure optimal performance and reliability.