Your hot water system is one of the top-ranked heavy-duty appliances in your home. Despite this, homeowners typically do not pay much attention to it. As long as your hot water supply for the various household applications remains uninterrupted, this system tends to be overlooked when it comes to routine maintenance. However, with the intense working conditions that this appliance is exposed to, it is not surprising that it will develop occasional problems. To prevent these issues from escalating into a premature replacement, you need to be aware of how to spot a potential issue and have it remedied in good time. So what are some signs of hot water system deterioration that should be addressed immediately?
Buildup of debris inside the tank
An assumption people make about their hot water tank is that it will remain clean and pristine, as it is only water that passes through it. In reality, depending on the state of your water supply, there is a range of particles that could collect inside the tank ranging from dirt, minerals and so one. As sediment accumulates inside the receptacle, the constant exposure to heat causes this particulate matter to calcify.
As a result, hard debris settles at the bottom of your tank. When you use your hot water system without eliminating this rubble, you risk irreparable damage to the receptacle in the form of cracks and holes, as the hardened matter will knock against the interior lining of the tank. Additionally, the sediment could start causing blockages in the outlet pipes, and this will impede hot water flow in your home. When you begin to hear strange noises emanating from inside the tank, it is time to have the receptacle thoroughly cleaned by a professional.
Inadequate heating of the water
Another complication that you could ace that would be a clear indicator of the steady deterioration of your hot water system is uneven heating of the water in the tank. The common culprit for this problem is a malfunctioning dip tube. A dip tube functions to discharge cold water into the tank and as this water is heated, it rises to allow for more cold water to be deposited into the receptacle.
However, when the heater's dip tube has become damaged, it loses its ability to direct cold water to the bottom of the receptacle. You subsequently find that water at the top of the tank remains cold and this translates into uneven hot water circulation in the home. A hot water system technician can inspect your dip tube for any fractures and replace it to restore functionality to the heater.
When it comes to renovating a home, there are a lot of things you can do, and quite a few you should not! I am renovating my first home, and I have learned a lot simply by watching home handyman videos. However, when it comes to electrical work, I am limited by both safety and legal restrictions. My electrician will do the brunt of the rewiring work, but I am using this blog to help you identify causes of electrical faults; so you can bring to the attention of your own electrician. I will also discuss the basics of home electrical systems, such as what circuit breakers do, so you have a better idea where to start looking when the power goes out.