Imagine that you come home after a long, tiring day, your muscles aching and your mind weary. All you want is to step into a steaming hot shower and wash away the stress. But as you turn on the faucet, instead of that comforting rush of hot water, you’re met with a sputtering stream of lukewarm disappointment, maybe even with some gritty bits mixed in. That is the dreaded sign of sediment buildup in your water heater. Not only is it a major mood killer, but it can also shorten the lifespan of your water heater and make your energy bills climb. The good news is that keeping your water heater happy, healthy, and sediment free is easier than you think.

Understanding the Sediment Situation

To understand the sediment situation, we first need to clarify what sediment actually is. Your water is comprised of several materials, including minerals and other particles. Over time, these tiny particles can settle at the bottom of your water heater tank. Eventually, they form a layer of gunk that turns into a thick, crusty sludge that can wreak havoc on system performance.

Flushing for Freshness

One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent this mineral mayhem is to flush your water heater tank regularly. Flushing helps remove the sediment that’s already settled at the bottom of the tank. How often you flush depends on how hard your water is. The more minerals, the more frequent it needs flushed. Completing the process once a year is a good starting point.

Temperature Tango

The temperature of your water heater can also affect sediment buildup. Higher temperatures can make those minerals solidify and settle more quickly. While it might be tempting to crank up the heat for those extra-toasty showers that make you feel like you’re melting into a puddle of relaxation, keeping your water heater temperature at a moderate level can help reduce sediment formation.

Anode Antics

Most water heaters have a sacrificial anode rod, which is a really important component. It’s a long metal rod that’s like a bodyguard for your water heater, protecting the tank from corrosion. However, over time, this anode rod can wear down and even contribute to sediment buildup. Inspecting and replacing the anode rod as needed can help prevent sediment problems and keep your water heater running smoothly for years to come.

While you can certainly handle some basic water heater maintenance yourself, like flushing the tank or checking the temperature, there are times when it’s best to call in the professionals. A licensed and experienced plumber has the tools and expertise to give your water heater a thorough checkup to make certain that everything is in tip-top shape. They can also spot potential problems that you might miss to save you from those dreaded emergency calls and costly repairs down the road. You should schedule an inspection yearly. To schedule your inspection for this year, call the friendly and experienced team at The Plumber in Mesa, AZ, and we will take every measure to ensure your water heater is functioning at its best.