How To Tell if Scum Is Damaging Your Water Heater

When was the last time you checked your water heater? If it's been a while, you might want to give it a closer look, as there could be scum buildup in your tank that could damage your water heater.

Scum is a buildup of minerals and other contaminants that accumulate over time and cause problems with your water temperature and pressure. It often forms at the bottom of your water heater tank, walls, and connected pipes. If left unchecked, scum can reduce the efficiency of your water heater and even lead to complete breakdowns.

So how do you know if scum is in your water heater? Discover some signs to look out for.

Extended Heating Time

Scum buildup in a water heater system can lead to extended heating times due to its insulating properties. This mineral-laden deposit forms a layer at the bottom of the tank, creating a barrier between the heater's burner and the water. As a result, the heat from the burner has to first penetrate this layer of scum before it can warm up the water.

This additional step means the water takes longer to heat, leading to extended heating times and reduced efficiency. Additionally, the scum can cause uneven heating, as certain sections of the water may be insulated from the heat by the deposit. You'll likely notice this issue when you have to wait longer for hot water or when the water temperature fluctuates frequently.

Visible Sediment

Scum can often manifest as visible sediment in your water, serving as a clear indicator of its presence in your water heater system. This sediment, which is essentially the hardened version of the scum, can break off from the accumulation in the tank and enter your home's water supply.

This sediment can also appear as discolored water or small flakes that come out when you turn on the faucet. You might even notice tiny, sand-like particles floating in your water or settling at the bottom of a glass. The color of this sediment can vary, ranging from a rusty brown to a white grit, depending on the minerals present in your water supply.

Sediment can also accumulate in the hot water pipes, leading to lower water pressure or clogging problems in your faucets and showerheads. When the sediment breaks off from the scum buildup and travels through the pipes, it can become stuck in these narrow passages, affecting the flow of water.

If this issue coincides with a noticeable change in your water's appearance or feel, check your water heater for scum.

Descaling is usually the best solution for removing scum from a water heater. This process begins by draining the water heater and flushing out any sediment accumulated at the bottom of the tank. Professionals then introduce a descaling agent to dissolve and remove the scum buildup from the tank walls and connected pipes.

Strange Sounds

Scum buildup can lead to water heater noises, a phenomenon known as gurgling or popping. These sounds occur due to the interaction of the heat from the burner with the mineral deposits sitting at the bottom of the tank.

As the water heater tries to warm up the water, the heat also reaches these hard deposits, causing the tiny amount of water trapped beneath to turn into steam. As this trapped steam struggles to escape, it causes the popping or rumbling sound you might hear.

Keep in mind that these sounds are not just a minor annoyance. They signify an ongoing reduction in your water heater's deficiency. The presence of scum means the water heater has to work harder to give you hot water. This translates into higher energy consumption and increased wear, which could shorten the system's lifespan and cause more frequent breakdowns.

Efficient Water Heaters Inc offers professional maintenance and descaling services to ensure your system runs at its best. Remember, checking for signs of scum buildup can save you from costly repairs or replacements in the long run. So don't wait until it's too late—keep an eye out for these signs and contact us for a thorough checkup today!