Water Heater Facts

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How long should my water heater last?
It is generally said that the average life of a Dallas water heater is 6-10 years. However, the life of your Dallas water heater can depend on multiple variables such as proper installation, proper venting and the type of water in your area (soft, hard, lime deposits). Water temperature is also a factor. The hotter you keep your water, the quicker the heater can burn out.

If your water heater goes out unexpectedly, it can cause flood damage to your whole house. To prevent this, we recommend your water heater be kept up to code and a WAGS Water and Gas Shutoff Valve be installed for your protection.

My water heater doesn’t make as much hot water as it used to. Why?
Sediment could be building up in your tank. Dallas water heaters tend to accumulate sediment and lime deposits as they age. If the heater isn’t cleaned periodically, the sediment may rise to a level that will act as a barrier between the burner and the water, making it harder to heat.

My water stinks. What would make it smell like rotten eggs?
Hydrogen, sulfur, and bacteria can cause foul smelling water. The magnesium anode rod in the tank of your hot water heater protects the tank surface, but generates enough hydrogen to create an odor when it interacts with sulfur in the water or bacteria in the tank. You may be able to minimize the problem by replacing the magnesium anode rod with an aluminum anode. The most efficient method of eliminating the odor is to control the bacteria. The use of chlorine injectors or ultraviolet light will destroy the bacteria.

Do I need a drain pan under my water heater?
Yes. A drain pan will prevent damage to floors, ceilings, and furniture if the heater leaks. Since a typical drain pan doesn’t hold that much water, it must have a pipe to a drain or other outlet for the water. If installed properly, a drain pan and pipe will help control leakage and protect your belongings from water damage.

What’s a “diptube”? Does my water heater have one?
A cold water inlet is the same thing as a diptube, and your Dallas water heater does have one. It is located on the right side of the water heater when you face the front of the machine.

What is the “anode rod” and where is it?
Usually, the anode rod on a hot water heater is attached to the hot water outlet. If you face the water heater (the lables would be in front of you), the hot water outlet is on the left hand side. A “sacrificial rod” is another name for the anode rod.

Most Dallas water heaters have a steel tank with a porcelain enamel (glass) lining. However, it is rarely possible to completely cover the inside of the tank. Therefore it is important to provide metal that can be consumed by the electrical process. The sacrificial anode rod acts as a lightning rod for the corrosion process, drawing the harmful electrolytic process away from the water heater tank and focusing the corrosion on the anode rod. The sacrificial anode rod ensures the electrolysis doesn’t affect the tanks.

Do I need to do maintenance on my water heater?
Yes. check your installation and operation manual for maintenance recommendations. We suggest you contact Watermark Plumbing to perform most water heater repairs and maintenance services in Dallas.

If you're looking for a professional plumbing company in Dallas then please call us today at (469) 688-3724 or complete our request form.