Sediment buildup affects all storage tank water heaters, and property owners who ignore the issue eventually encounter problems. While sediment buildup usually only requires water heater repair in Birmingham, AL, severe buildup is a more serious problem. Plumbing Professionals discusses the top causes of buildup and how you can prevent it below:

Main Causes of Sediment Buildup

As water heats up, minerals naturally present in water collect at the bottom of the tank. This includes naturally occurring substances like calcium and magnesium that appear similar to grains of sand when in larger concentrations. The minerals can affect the heater’s performance in a number of ways including:

• Unusual noises when the water heater is operating
• Higher energy bills
• Inconsistent water temperatures
• A limited supply of hot water throughout the property

All storage tank heaters build up sediment over time, and if you want to avoid this problem in the future, we recommend upgrading to a tankless water heater. You would need to regularly change the filters on a tankless unit to prevent sediment from damaging pipes or the heater itself, but this is much more affordable than dealing with a sediment buildup.

How to Prevent Damage From Sediment Buildup

To limit the effects of sediment buildup, homeowners can schedule routine maintenance from professional water heater services or flush their heaters periodically. That said, even with regular flushing, storage tank heaters eventually fail, though a well-maintained tank heater can last 8-12 years.

When sediment affects the heater’s performance, the homeowner should engage the services of an experienced plumber. In many instances, the problem can be resolved with a single visit, though replacing an old, inefficient heater can often result in a better long-term value.

At Plumbing Professionals, we specialize in repair and water heater installation, and our experts can explore options that minimize disruption for the homeowner while keeping costs in check.

If you’ve noticed signs of sediment buildup, take immediate action to prevent the problem from damaging your heater. Contact Plumbing Professionals for expert inspections, repair and water heater replacement.