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Of all the problems that can impact your pipes and water heater, sedimentary buildup is among the more harmful and difficult to deal with. This sediment, often a mix of minerals, can clog your pipes, cause leaks, and contaminate your water supply. Ultimately, if you’re stuck with sediment in your plumbing, you may wonder if it’s time to replace your pipes. However, this isn’t always necessary; if you’re alert and careful, you can learn how to detect and remove the sediment before things get worse.
Detection
If you have sediment in your pipes or water heater, you’ll likely be dealing with these problems:
- A lack of hot water, either because the water is being blocked or because the heater can’t function properly.
- Contaminated water. Depending on the type of sediment you’re getting, the water can look cloudy and chalky to dark and rusty. It will also taste and smell abnormally.
- Noises, such as popping bubbles, come from the water heater.
Some of these issues can stem from other sources, but if they happen simultaneously, you likely have a sediment buildup.
Prevention and Removal
If you flush out your water heater at least once a year, you can prevent buildup from occurring. This requires turning the water heater off, connecting your garden hose to the drain, and pouring the water into the floor drain. Once you’re done, plug whichever sink drain is furthest from the heater, and run some cold water for about 40 minutes, using this time to look for leaks. Doing this also cleans out whatever sediment was in the heater.
Other options include installing a water softener, regulating water temperatures, and soaking the drain in vinegar.
Contact Us
Sometimes, you can’t fix the problem alone. That’s where we come in. D. Rohde Heating, Plumbing, & Air can solve any plumbing issue, so contact us today.
