Re: Hot Water Heater

[Nancy Davidson]

When I called up a company to tune up our furnace, I asked the question "how often should the hot water heater be cleaned out". I was told once a year. Is that correct?

Our home is brand new; and, so far, we haven't had it cleaned out. Also, has anybody had any trouble with their hot water heater in their new home?
Nancy Davidson

[Jerry]

I imagine you mean checking and cleaning the burner on a gas water heater. I've always done my own 'dusting and cleaning' on my furnace and gas water heater. If there is any question about how to do it, you should contact a professional, for safety reasons. But there is not much to it.
There can also be a buildup within the tank, especially if you have 'hard' water or sand or crud in your water supply. You can attach a hose and open up the bottom drain to fluch the tank out, but that won't help with any calcium or iron buildup. The tanks usually contain rods that are supposed to help stop corosion and buildup, but they only 'do so much' and only 'last so long'. Most tanks are only guarenteed for 6 to 12 years, so it's always a good idea to replace it before it leak. Especially if it is located on a wood floor, and not in a basement that can stand the water leak. They sell a pan [with drain] you can buy to install under the heater, if you ever replace your heater in the future.
Gas heaters are not as touchy with buildup as the electrics. Some of better electric tanks have better designed heating rods that are almost immune to buildup.

[Jerry]

PS: Sorry about all the typo's. And that drain pan I was talking about will not work with a manufacured home gas heater. I think they all have the combustion air intake underneath. So it would only work if you have an electic.

[rick]

Just bought single unit and am trying to locate the hot water heater. Any help email me.

[rmurray]

It will be straight UP from where the water line enters the house........