You know, life isn’t like cartoons. Not every plumbing problem turns into exploding pipes and floods. Sometimes, especially when it comes to water heaters, the issue can be more insidious. Issues like scaling and liming can cause your water heater to grow less efficient over time and eventually break down.
No, your water heater doesn’t develop scales or grow limes. We’re talking about a complex mineral growing process. In homes where hard water is more common, the mineral deposits like lime and calcium can solidify on the bottom of your water heater. There are several tips that we can provide in order to descale your water heater and help it last longer. If the problem has gotten too bad where our nifty tricks don’t help, you can always call one of our technicians for quality plumbing in Lake Worth, FL!
Listen closely and you might save a few bucks!
The Scaling Process
In homes with hard water, (i.e. water that contains a plethora of metals and minerals like magnesium and calcium) there can be a process known as scaling, which is the building up of said minerals on pipes and water tanks. No need to worry, these minerals aren’t bad for your personal health- but they can wreak havoc on a plumbing system and make your water heater much less effective. Eventually, you’ll be dealing with pipes and a water tank that lives for half as long as it normally would when it’s caked in lime and calcium deposits.
Some DIY Solutions
Obviously, if your water tank is already covered in lime deposits, then you might need more professional help. Though, let’s say you’ve just invested in a new water heater and you know your well water contains plenty of minerals. What can you do?
- Lower the water heating temperature. Various studies have determined that a slightly lower temperature for a water heater slows down the scaling process. Just a decrease in 20 degrees can reduce lime scaling by anywhere from 2-6 times what would normally be produced. That’s a major improvement and can help your water heater last much longer without repairs.
- Install a water softener. Water softeners can be instrumental to not only your water heater’s lifespan, but the lifespan of your entire plumbing system. If you know you’ve got a hard water problem, this could be a great long-term solution.
- Reduce hot water quantity use. It’s not the most luxurious way to deal with scaling, but it’s an affordable solution for those who don’t want to pay for a water softener. If less water enters your water heater, less lime will build upon the base of the system. Water conservation is also a pretty environmentally friendly solution to this problem, and it’s free!
Well, it’s entirely up to you what you do with this information. All we can tell you is- don’t let the scaling of your water heater get to the point of no return. You might be looking at a system replacement way earlier than you thought you would. For every other plumbing issue, we’re there to help.
At Admiral Plumbing Services, LLC, you can count on nice people and super service. Call our super friendly team today!
