Premature Downtime in Hot Water Systems: Causes and Solutions
March 12, 2020Whenever we want to relax after a long time of work, we would usually visit our bathroom just to get a quick warm bath. Even in the cold season, most of us would opt to use warm water whenever we take our shower in the morning.
One system that can effectively make our water from our taps warm or hot right away is a hot water system. A hot water system is installed to make sure that the water from our taps is hot enough for us to use. If you have a hot water system, you can expect it to fully run and work for about eight to twelve years. However, certain key aspects can shorten its lifespan. Fortunately, these aspects can be mitigated or even avoided through some helpful solutions.
Internal Rusting
Most hot water system tanks are made up of metallic steel that can rust easily. One important thing about rusting, though, is that it varies depending on the incoming water. If you are processing hard water, then expect your tank to rust faster. To slow down rusting, you must install sacrificial anode rods inside your tank. Remember to change these rods regularly to avoid the rusting of your tank.
Sediment Accumulation
Aside from rusting, hard water is said to be the culprit of sediment accumulation inside the hot water system. Sediment build-up can insulate the bottom of your system from the anode protection, initiate rusting, and cause overheating. One great way to avoid sediment accumulation and its effects is to drain and clean your tank regularly. You can also install a water softener for the hard water.
Corrosive Fumes
If you own a gas-powered hot water system, then you might have a problem with corrosive fumes. A gas-powered hot water system can draw corrosive air into its burner. The entry of corrosive fumes to your hot water system can cause its damage. The only solution to this problem is to keep your water heater away from corrosives that include bleaching agents, ammonia, and other corrosive acids.
Joints Leakage
Hot water systems are composed of unions and flex lines that must be tightened after six months. Without tightening these components, the rubber washers connecting the joints will start to shrink, resulting in leakage. The leaking joints will then rust from the outside in. To solve this problem, you must ensure that these parts are tightened at least every four months.
Capacity Overload
A hot water system can be expensive, which is why some people purchase a hot water system that is smaller than their needed water capacity. If you use an undersized hot water system, then you can expect it to overload in the future. An overloaded hot water system will break down due to constant expansion and contraction of the tank. So, save yourself and just buy a properly sized water system.
High Water Pressure
Having a high pressure on your hot water system can be sinful. The standard pressure for most water systems ranges between 60 and 80 psi. If your water pressure is over 80 psi, then it might damage not only your water system but also your plumbing system. Some solutions to this problem include replacing pressure reducing valve or adding an expansion tank.
Without proper maintenance and cleaning, we would never know that our hot water system is already prematurely damaged. So, follow the aforementioned solutions to prolong your hot water system’s life. If you want to know more about your hot water system, you can ask us now at Abundant Hot Water.
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