No one wants to step in the shower, twist the handle, and get a jolt of warm water that almost immediately runs cold. This is a common issue if you don’t regularly service your water heater. Here are simple ways to prevent sediment buildup in your water heater this summer.
Why Summer Poses a Threat to Your Water Heater
The summer season comes with more showers, more water consumption, and more potential hazards for your plumbing. Along with excess sand and dirt, increased water demand from showers and laundry can put a strain on your water heater and raise the risk of sediment buildup.
Warmer incoming water speeds up mineral formation, which can settle on the bottom of your tank and cause a blockage. If you go on vacation for a prolonged period, water sitting in your tank creates the perfect environment for sediment to accumulate.
Warning Signs
Here are the warning signs that your water heater has sediment buildup:
- Rumbling noises
- Inconsistent heating
- Lower heat temperature
- Shorter hot water supply
- Higher energy bills
Reach out to a licensed technician who can inspect your tank. Whether you have sediment buildup or other issues, you should never ignore problems that can worsen and ultimately harm your system.
Tips for Keeping Your Water Heater Clear This Summer
Here are a few tips to help you keep your system running smoothly all summer:
- Schedule an Annual Flush: Annual flushes are the easiest way to prevent sediment from building up in your water heater. Hiring a professional is the fastest, safest way to do this, and it may be required under your water heater’s warranty coverage. Avoid any DIY flushes unless you know it won’t void your warranty protection. If it’s your first time doing it, call a technician who can help show you the best way to do it.
- Install a Water Softener: Water softeners prevent scaling and all the other negative side effects of hard water. In addition to making your water more palatable and effective at cleaning, it also helps save money on water heater repairs and extends the lifespan of all water-consuming appliances.
- Make Sure the Temperature Is Set to Slow Mineral Scaling: A temperature of 120°F is ideal for good water heater performance. Setting your system under this temperature can cause bacteria to grow, and going higher can run the risk of scalding and wearing out your system faster. If you aren’t sure how to adjust your water heater temperature, a professional can do it for you. In fact, this could be the perfect time to schedule an inspection and ask them to teach you more about your system, so you can take preventative measures to keep it in top shape.
If you live in Tucson, AZ or a surrounding area and need water heater services, make your first call to Pride of Tucson.