Water heaters make comfortable modern living possible. Still, many people seem to misunderstand these integral appliances, with many surprising water heater myths circulating the internet.
This article sheds some light on these common myths and explains what makes them inaccurate.
SETTING THE HEATER TO A HIGHER TEMPERATURE IS BETTER
One of the most persistent myths is that setting the water heater to “high” makes it perform better and more efficiently.
In reality, most manufacturers recommend a setting of around 120°F. This temperature is enough for most households and typical use cases. It also conserves energy and reduces the risk of scalding. The U.S. Department of Energy agrees, noting that 120°F is usually good enough for most uses, and higher settings may unnecessarily waste energy.
TANKLESS HEATERS MAKE INSTANT HOT WATER
Tankless water heaters are fast and energy-saving. Yet, they don’t always deliver hot water instantly, which isn’t a sign of failure. They deliver water on demand, and waiting times for warm water with them are minimal compared to traditional heaters. But, there is still a slight delay, as hot water travels through pipes to the faucets. This delay may be slightly longer during cold months.
SEDIMENT BUILDUP IS A MINOR CONCERN
Many people underestimate sediment buildup in water heaters. Over time, hard water minerals collect at the tank’s bottom. This buildup contaminates the water, makes the heater less efficient, and potentially causes overheating. It’s a good idea to have professional plumbers flush and service the tank yearly to avert these problems and extend its lifespan.
LARGER WATER HEATERS ARE ALWAYS BETTER
How big a household’s water heater should be depends on how much hot water the household uses. It shouldn’t be based on the assumption that bigger is always better. An oversized water heater could mean wasted energy, while an undersized one will likely leave the household cold. Ask for professional assistance to find the best size before selecting a water heater for the household.
WATER HEATERS NEED LITTLE MAINTENANCE
Contrary to this myth, water heaters, like other household appliances, need regular maintenance to perform at their best. That means checking the pressure relief valve, inspecting the anode rod, and flushing the tank to remove sediment. Neglecting water heaters for a long time (sometimes for years or more) can make them inefficient, cause high utility bills, and shorten the heater’s lifespan.
HARD WATER DOESN’T AFFECT WATER HEATERS
Water heaters can indeed handle hard water. Still, this doesn’t mean hard water can’t damage them over time. Minerals like calcium and magnesium can harm it if left unchecked for a long time. They can build up in the tank and on the heating elements, thus making the water heater less efficient and potentially causing technical problems.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR WATER HEATER
Debunking common myths helps demystify water heaters, which could mean more informed decisions about their use and maintenance. Take care of them and choose the right type and size of water heater for best results.
Water Heater Pros provides water heater installation and replacement services for Las Vegas and surrounding area residents and businesses. Our expert technicians install both traditional and tankless water heaters for homes and other buildings with gas or electric service. We offer the highest quality installers for efficient, versatile water heaters such as Rheem. Ruud, high-efficiency tankless Navien units, and more. Ask about our installation specials.