If you live in an area with hard water and don't use a water softener, your gas water heater will accumulate mineral deposits over time. If the appliance is not cleaned periodically, these deposits can build up and decrease the machine's efficiency and life span. Luckily, cleaning the water heater is something you can do yourself, and here are three different ways you can complete this task.
Flush the Hot Water Heater
Sometimes simply draining or flushing the appliance is all it takes to get rid of any built up mineral deposits. Of the three options, this is the easiest to do and should take place at least once per year. Before proceeding with any of the instructions in this guide, turn off the water heater's gas valve and the inlet valve that supplies cold water to the tank. These valves should be located on or near the tank and water pipes.
To flush the water heater:
Scrape and Vacuum the Sediment
If you've never flushed your water heater since you've owned it or it's been awhile since the last time you've done it, there may be quite a bit of mineral buildup in the machine. Another option is to scrape and vacuum the debris out of the water heater. To perform this task, you'll need a wire hanger that's been straightened and bent at the end, a wet/dry vacuum with a 1/2-inch hose attachment, a wrench, and plumbing tape.
Use Apple Cider Vinegar
While there are water heater cleaners you can use to get rid of mineral deposits, it's best to use apple cider vinegar because it eliminates the risk of contaminating the water supply with unwanted chemicals. Be aware that this method involves letting the apple cider vinegar sit in the tank for at least 24 hours, so you will not have hot water during that time. Be certain to make appropriate preparations beforehand.
For more ways to get rid of mineral deposits in your water heater or to get help fixing other problems you may have with the appliance, contact a plumber or water heater repair company.
Share21 April 2015
Hi everyone, my name is Linda Strickerts. I am going to talk about plumbing pipes problems, repairs and upgrades on this site. Although the pipes hide beneath the floors and behind the walls, they are an integral part of the home. Without plumbing pipes, we would still be heading out to the outhouse to do our business. Washing clothes, dishes and ourselves would also not be possible without carrying buckets of water in and out of the home. I hope to explore the different ways plumbing pipes changed our lives for the better. I will talk about keeping the pipes in great shape as well. Thanks.