Your home’s water heater is an essential piece of equipment, so it’s only fitting that you maintain it to ensure its safe and efficient operation. One of the most common reasons water heaters fail is corrosion, often caused by the buildup of iron and other minerals in your water supply.
Our certified team at Linn Benton Plumbing can help you solve corrosion problems through effective water heater repair in Albany, OR, but here are some things you can do to prevent it from occurring in the first place.
INSTALL GALVANIZED UNIONS
Galvanic corrosion can be a big problem if the heating elements within your hot water heater are steel with copper sheathing. When the steel and copper become wet, electrolysis and corrosion can occur. As it worsens, the heating element will begin to fail. Installing galvanized unions with plastic nipples on top of the tank helps prevent this type of corrosion from occurring.
CHECK COMBUSTION CHAMBERS FREQUENTLY
The combustion chamber is another typical location for corrosion. These chambers should be inspected annually to ensure no rust or corrosion could cause the unit to fail or become unsafe. Be sure to set the heater’s gas control to the pilot setting and remove the draft diverter and hatch cover before you begin your check. If you notice any corrosion, consult with professional water heater services as soon as possible to get the unit serviced and prevent further damage.
CHECK ANODE RODS REGULARLY
The anode rod in your water heater attracts the corrosive elements in the water to itself, keeping them away from the tank’s metal components. Anode rods can become encased in calcium carbonate over time, particularly if you deal with hard water, so it’s important to inspect them regularly to ensure they can do the job they were designed to do. During water heater installation, your plumber will often recommend that you replace the anode rod every five years. But if you’re having frequent problems with corrosion, replacing the rod more frequently may be a good idea.
Whether you need help repairing a broken hot water heater or preventing corrosion that can compromise the performance of your appliance, Linn Benton Plumbing has the experience and expertise to get the job done right.
Contact us today to request a service visit.
