How Water Quality Affects the Performance of Your Water Heater

Posted in Hot Water Heater Repairs , on November 15, 2024

One of the biggest culprits of water heater issues and failure is water quality. Poor water quality, in particular, can damage your water heater tank, leading to damage, poor performance, and even leaking. When left untreated, poor water quality can eventually lead to the need for a water heater replacement. This is why homeowners must take measures to help mitigate the risk of poor water quality in their tanks. Hard water, sediment-heavy water, and corrosive water can all cause a variety of problems. If you begin to experience issues with your water heater, it is best to call in an emergency plumber in Boca Raton rather than attempting to self-diagnose the problems. At Broward Plumbing, our expert team is sure to restore your water heater to working order as soon as possible. Contact us today for water heater repair!

What Does Water Quality Refer To?

water heater repair Many people are unsure as to what water quality refers to, as many people assume that all water is safe. However, your water quality may not always be excellent, and this is what leads to many water heater issues.

When we refer to water quality, we refer to the pH levels, mineral concentration, and the presence of sediments. Each of these has its own impact on water quality and can contribute to poor water heater performance as a result.

Common Water Quality Issues that Cause Water Heater Replacement

Hard Water: This refers to water that contains high levels of minerals, usually calcium and magnesium. When water heats up inside the water heater tank, these minerals tend to form scale deposits on the walls of the tank. It can also coat the insides of the pipes and heating elements of your water heater as well.
Sediment Buildup: Sediment accumulation generally results from particles present in the water supply, such as soil, sand, silt, or other small debris. When water is heated, these particles tend to settle at the bottom of the tank, gradually building up over time.
Corrosive Water: This is also referred to as "soft" acidic water. This water typically has a low pH level. When water is too acidic, it can slowly corrode metal parts, especially in tanks that rely on metal-based components, like traditional water heaters.

How Poor Water Quality Impacts a Water Heater

Hard Water

When you suffer from hard water for a prolonged period of time, the minerals can build up to the point where they can completely coat the inner surface of your tank and its heating elements. This can prevent heat from transferring from the heating element to the water. This will result in cooler water.

This forces your water heater to work much harder in order to bring the water to the desired temperature, which can cause your heating and energy bills to increase. This can also cause your heating element to burn out. Over time, this scale buildup can decrease your water heater’s efficiency by up to 30%. Scaling is also damaging to your water heater elements, causing them to wear down much quicker.

Sediment

A thick layer of sediment at the bottom of the tank can create several issues. For example, it can form a barrier between the water and the heating element, reducing the unit’s efficiency and slowing down water heating. The heater will need to use more energy to heat the water, which can lead to higher utility costs.

Over time, sediment accumulation can create "hot spots" within the tank. These areas of concentrated heat can weaken the tank’s metal lining, potentially causing leaks or cracks in the water heater. If sediment levels are high, the buildup can clog the pipes, reducing water flow and leading to a complete system shutdown if left unaddressed.

Corrosive Water

Corrosive water can slowly eat away at the metal elements of your water heater tank. This can result in small holes and cracks, which can lead to leaks. If left untreated, these cracks can grow bigger, leading to serious leaks that can result in severe water damage.

As time goes on, corrosive water can damage your water heater to the point where it cannot be repaired anymore, shortening its lifespan. The most common remedy for long-term corrosive water is usually a water heater replacement.

Avoid Water Quality Issues with Broward Plumbing

Water quality plays an essential role in your water heater’s performance. If your water heater is filled with minerals, sediment, or corrosive water, your water heater can lose its efficiency, break open, and/or even stop working entirely. Poor water heater efficiency can also lead to higher energy bills. When left untreated for too long, homeowners may require a water heater replacement. In order to prevent water quality issues, contact an emergency plumber in Boca Raton for water heater service. Contact Broward Plumbing today to book an appointment!