How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater By Removing Sediment

Water heaters are the most frequently used appliance in most homes. We use our water heaters for several daily household tasks – washing dishes, doing laundry, showering, bathing, and more. Because of this frequency of use, water heaters, unfortunately, do not have very long average lifespans.

How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater By Removing Sediment

While this is a fact of life that homeowners have to deal with, plan, and budget for, there are certain ways to help prolong the life of your water heater. To maximize the service life of your water heater, it’s critical to avoid corrosion by flushing the tank to remove sediment and replacing the anode rod when it wears out. 

What is sediment, and does it affect the water heater?

Sediment buildup is perhaps the most common cause of a water heater failing or leaking. This sediment can be natural mineral deposits that build up over time or other tiny particles present in the water supply.

Water heater tanks often fall victim to internal corrosion due to sediment, which is understandable as the tank’s job is to hold water. A rusted water heater tank often leads to clogs in the water heater, more internal corrosion than necessary, and premature leaking or cracking. 

How to remove sediment and avoid corrosion

One way to ensure your water tank has the least amount of sediment possible is to drain and flush the water heater. Flushing the tank is recommended for homeowners once a year. However, if you have hard water with high levels of minerals, you will likely want to perform this task more often. 

Another way to prolong the life of your water heater is to check the anode rod within the tank frequently. The anode rod is a sacrificial component intended to corrode before the water tank itself experiences corrosion. A typical anode rod will last roughly five years and can be replaced easily and cheaply. Replacing the anode rod when you notice it is thoroughly corroded is a great, simple way to extend the life of your water heater. 

A word about warranties 

Traditional tank water heaters, on average, come standard with a five- or six-year warranty – the longest warranty typically being 10 years. While certain units have lifetime warranties, you will pay a hefty premium for this luxury. You can get a more long-lasting unit if you opt for a tankless model, as their lifespan tops out at around 20 years. 

Professional water heater maintenance in the New Orleans and Metairie areas

How long have you had your water heater? And perhaps more importantly, when is the last time you performed a flush of the tank? If you’re looking for ways to prolong your water heater’s life expectancy, give Bienvenu Brothers a call to schedule routine service for this regularly used home appliance. You can reach our friendly team at (504) 835-7783.