Your hot water heater plays an important role in your everyday comfort by providing the hot or warm water you need for tasks like washing your hands, doing the dishes, running a load of laundry, and showering or bathing. However, with the rise of internet “experts” putting out misleading and even blatantly incorrect information, there is a steady stream of myths floating around about hot water heaters.
In this post, we’ll review a few common myths we’ve encountered here at Wake Forest Plumbing Company, along with the truth behind them.
Myth: Turning up the thermostat will speed up your hot water heater.
Fact: Your hot water heater is designed to heat up water at a specific rate, so turning up the thermostat will only impact the final temperature.
Myth: Draining the tank prevents sediment buildup.
Fact: While this can help slow sediment buildup, it won’t prevent it entirely. To prevent buildup, you’ll need to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for flushing the tank.
Myth: Slow drips can be ignored.
Fact: A leaky hot water heater can lead to all kinds of problems, like higher energy bills and mold growth. Any leaks, no matter how slow, should be assessed and repaired by a professional as soon as you notice them.
Myth: If your hot water heater produces odors, you have to replace it.
Fact: Several things might be causing odd smells to emit from your hot water heater, but not all of them mean you have to replace the unit. In many cases, the smells are caused by sediment buildup in the tank and will go away after flushing the tank. Make sure to consult with a trusted plumber who will give you a fair assessment before you replace your unit.