What is water heater scaling?
Through regular use, your water heater accumulates scale as a result of the hard water it heats. Over time, the scale accumulates into a sand-like buildup that impacts the performance of your water heater…or worse, rusts it out.
Three indications of water heater buildup.
There are three main warning signs that indicate your water heater may have scale buildup.
- Lack of Hot Water
Sediment buildup can impede the heat transfer from the heating elements to the water in your tank. As a result, you may experience quicker heat loss during use. - Longer Periods without Hot Water
Similarly, the sediment buildup may require longer intervals to fully heat your tank. - High Energy Bills
With buildup in your tank, your heater is having to work harder to heat the stored water. The harder it has to work, the more energy is required.
How to prevent scaling.
Since scaling in your water heater occurs naturally over time, there’s no way to completely prevent it. And while a bit of scale isn’t necessarily a bad thing, problems arise when it’s left unchecked. Over time, loose scale particles can accumulate and bond together, forming a thicker layer of sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. This buildup can reduce efficiency, cause overheating, and even lead to system failure—making water heater repair a necessary and sometimes costly service. Regular maintenance is key to preventing these issues and extending the life of your water heater.
How to prevent sediment buildup.
Parthenon advises scheduling an annual water heater flush to eliminate buildup before it becomes problematic. Beyond the potential cost savings from replacing a corroded tank, regular flushing offers numerous benefits:
Benefits of a Water Heater Flush:
- Prevents major issues caused by sediment buildup
- May expand the lifespan of your unit
- Allows for the highest possible performance from your heater (imagine hot water faster and longer)
- Reduces the amount of energy it uses (lowering your energy bill)
- Removes water odor created by stagnate water and sediment in your tank
If you’re experiencing issues with keeping warm water, give Parthenon Plumbing, Heating, & AC Repair a call at 615-298-2995 to have your water heater inspected. Our schedule your annual water heater flush or tankless descaling today! And don’t forget you can save 20% on all plumbing repairs as a Parthenon Partner!
Water heater flush results may vary based on the brand and age of your water heater.
