How to Remove Large Calcium Deposits in a Water Heater

Calcium deposits form on surfaces that hard water touches. Although these deposits occur naturally, they can cost you a lot of money if you don't remove them. Calcium deposits can cause a water heater to increase its use of fuel by 40 percent or more. It's beneficial to watch for these deposits and remove them when possible.

Things You'll Need

• Long, narrow brush
• Garden hose
• Wrench

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Instructions

1. Drain all water from the water heater tank.

2. Remove the drain valve. Using a wrench, twist off the valve.

3. Insert a long, narrow brush through the space from which you removed the drain valve. Scrub every inside surface of the bottom of the tank with the brush.

4. Reinstall the drain valve. Apply Teflon tape to the outside of the valve to prevent leaks.

5. Open the drain valve and attach a garden hose to it.

6. Turn on the water supply through the hose and into the water heater. Leave it on for 15 to 20 seconds and then turn it off.

7. Let all the water drain out of the tank.

8. Repeat this fill-and-drain process until the water that drains out of the heater is clear.

References

• Mark Farm Supply
• Water Heater Repair Guide