BA Plumbers Emphasize the Need for Water Heater Maintenance

A faulty gas water heater recently caused a destructive wildfire in Lake County, California, scorching nearly 70,000 acres of land. The wildfire also destroyed 43 homes, and put thousands of residents under evacuation alerts. Sources say that the gas water heater was located in a shed that contained flammable liquids. It remains unclear how the heater failed and ignited the fire.

The Importance of Water Heater Maintenance

Different types of water heaters deliver important benefits to many homes and establishments. However, as with any heat exchange device, proper maintenance is needed to keep a water heater performing safely and efficiently. According the National Fire Protection Association, water heaters spark thousands of fires annually in the United States.


This highlights the importance of proper water heater maintenance and installation. For both needs, you should call on experienced plumbers in Broken Arrow, like those at Infinity Plumbing Services. Our pros have the skills and know-how to ensure a safe installation and usage over time.

Caring for Your Water Heater

There are certain maintenance repairs that you as a homeowner can do on your own, however. One of the most important maintenance requirements with water heaters is to make sure its components are free from lime scale. What may look like harmless scale buildup can have enormous impacts on the efficiency of your system, potentially causing it to run longer burner cycles. This causes undue stress on the system, leading to no hot water, a shorter heater lifespan, and is a potential fire hazard.

Steps for Removing Lime Buildup

To remove lime scale, you’ll need to flush your water heater. The first thing you have to do is turn off your system’s power source. Next, place a sump pump with 1/6th horsepower in a 5 gallon bucket, then connect the pump’s output to the heater’s input with a hose. Connect another hose to the heater’s output then let one end sit inside the bucket.


Pour two to three gallons of white vinegar in your bucket, and add one gallon of water. This mixture will serve as your de-scaler. Start the pump and allow the mixture to cycle through your heater for 45 minutes. This process will loosen and remove lime buildup in your system, allowing it to run like new again.


Descaling is just one of the responsibilities that water heater owners like you need to perform. If you are unsure about how to go about this, or if you notice a problem with your water heater, call a plumber who offers conventional and/or tankless water heater service. Your prompt action on your plumbing problems may be more important than you think.

Sources:

Water heater blamed for massive Rocky Fire in Lake County, The Press Democrat, Aug. 12, 2015

Caring For Your Tankless Water Heater, DoItYourself.com

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Jared Coe