orlando water heater repair

Why Your Water Heater Builds-up Sediment Over time

Why Your Water Heater Builds Up Sediment Over Time

Sediment buildup inside a water heater is normal, especially in areas like Orlando and Central Florida, where water contains natural minerals. Over time, these minerals settle at the bottom of the tank and can cause performance and efficiency issues.

1. Minerals Naturally Found in Water

Most tap water contains dissolved minerals such as:

  • Calcium

  • Magnesium

  • Sand and small debris

When water is heated, these minerals separate from the water and settle at the bottom of the tank, forming sediment.

water heater sediment buildup, hard water Florida

2. Hard Water Accelerates Sediment Buildup

Central Florida is known for hard water, which contains higher levels of calcium and magnesium. The harder the water, the faster sediment accumulates.

This is why water heaters in Florida often experience sediment problems sooner than expected.

3. Heating Process Causes Minerals to Settle

Every time your water heater heats water:

  1. Cold water enters the tank

  2. Minerals sink to the bottom

  3. Heat hardens the sediment into a thick layer

Over time, this layer becomes difficult to remove without professional flushing.

4. Lack of Regular Maintenance

Many homeowners don’t realize that water heaters require annual maintenance.

Without routine flushing:

  • Sediment continues to build up

  • The tank works harder

  • Efficiency drops

  • Component wear increases

Regular maintenance helps slow sediment accumulation.

5. Aging Water Heater Tanks

As a water heater gets older:

  • The anode rod deteriorates

  • Internal corrosion increases

  • Sediment sticks more easily to the tank

Older units accumulate sediment much faster than newer systems.

Problems Caused by Sediment Buildup

Sediment buildup can lead to:

  • Reduced hot water supply

  • Higher energy bills

  • Rumbling or popping noises

  • Overheating of heating elements

  • Shortened water heater lifespan

  • Tank failure or leaks

How to Prevent Sediment Buildup

✔ Flush the water heater at least once a year

✔ Install a water softener if you have hard water

✔ Replace the anode rod when needed

✔ Schedule professional maintenance

When Sediment Means Replacement Is Needed

If sediment has hardened for years, flushing may not be enough. In those cases, water heater replacement is often the safest and most cost-effective solution.

Need Water Heater Maintenance or Replacement in Orlando?

At All Cool Heat Plumbing & General Contractor Inc, we provide:

  • Water heater flushing & maintenance

  • Tank and tankless water heater service

  • Professional water heater replacement

📞 Call (407) 461-0301 to schedule service today.