Every homeowner asks the question: Is water heater water clean? After all, we rely on hot water for everything from showers and baths to cooking and cleaning. But what if the water in your water heater is actually contaminated?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the truth about water heater water quality. We’ll discuss the potential contaminants that can be found in water heaters, the health risks associated with these contaminants, and the steps you can take to ensure that your water heater water is clean.
Common Contaminants in Water Heaters
There are a number of different contaminants that can be found in water heaters, including:
- Bacteria: Bacteria can grow in water heaters if the water temperature is not high enough. Some types of bacteria, such as Legionella, can cause serious health problems.
- Minerals: Minerals can build up in water heaters over time, causing the water to become hard. Hard water can damage plumbing fixtures and appliances, and it can also make it difficult to clean dishes and clothes.
- Sediment: Sediment can enter water heaters from the water supply. Sediment can clog water heater components and reduce the efficiency of the water heater.
- Chemicals: Chemicals can leach into water heaters from the materials used to make the water heater. Some chemicals, such as lead, can be harmful to health.
Health Risks Associated with Water Heater Contaminants
The contaminants that can be found in water heaters can pose a number of health risks, including:
- Gastrointestinal problems: Bacteria and other contaminants can cause gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Respiratory problems: Legionella bacteria can cause respiratory problems, such as pneumonia.
- Skin problems: Hard water can irritate the skin and cause dryness and itching.
- Kidney problems: Lead and other heavy metals can damage the kidneys.
How to Ensure That Your Water Heater Water Is Clean
There are a number of steps you can take to ensure that your water heater water is clean, including:
- Maintain a high water temperature: The water temperature in your water heater should be set to at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help to kill bacteria and prevent the growth of Legionella.
- Flush your water heater regularly: Flushing your water heater will help to remove sediment and other contaminants. You should flush your water heater at least once a year.
- Install a water softener: A water softener will help to remove minerals from your water. This will help to prevent the buildup of scale in your water heater and will also make it easier to clean dishes and clothes.
- Consider installing a water filter: A water filter will help to remove contaminants from your water. You can install a water filter at the point of entry to your home or at the point of use.
When to Call a Professional
If you are concerned about the quality of your water heater water, you should call a professional plumber. A plumber can inspect your water heater and test the water for contaminants. The plumber can also recommend the best course of action to ensure that your water heater water is clean.
What You Can Do Today
There are a few things you can do today to ensure that your water heater water is clean:
- Check the water temperature: Use a thermometer to check the water temperature in your water heater. The water temperature should be set to at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Flush your water heater: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to flush your water heater.
- Contact a professional: If you have any concerns about the quality of your water heater water, contact a professional plumber.
The Bottom Line: Is Water Heater Water Clean?
The answer to the question “Is water heater water clean?” is: it depends. There are a number of factors that can affect the quality of water heater water, including the age of the water heater, the type of water heater, and the maintenance of the water heater. By following the tips in this blog post, you can help to ensure that your water heater water is clean and safe to use.
Information You Need to Know
Q: How often should I flush my water heater?
A: You should flush your water heater at least once a year.
Q: What are the signs that my water heater needs to be flushed?
A: Signs that your water heater needs to be flushed include:
- Cloudy water
- Reduced water pressure
- Strange noises coming from the water heater
- Leaking water heater
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my water heater?
A: No, you should not use bleach to clean your water heater. Bleach can damage the water heater and void the warranty.
