What is the necessity of having a water heater relined?
Furnace and Water Heater Reline
Relining a water heater is essential to extend its lifespan and ensure its efficiency. Over time, the interior lining of a water heater can corrode due to constant exposure to water, particularly if the water is hard or has a high mineral content. This corrosion can lead to leaks, reduced heating efficiency, and eventually, complete water heater failure. By relining the water heater, you add a new protective layer inside the tank, preventing further corrosion and helping maintain the heater's functionality. This process can save you the cost and inconvenience of replacing the entire unit.
A terracotta flue, commonly used in chimneys, can decay or deteriorate over time due to several factors:
- Moisture Infiltration: Terracotta is a porous material, so if water seeps into the flue and freezes during cold weather, it can cause the material to crack or crumble. This is known as freeze-thaw damage.
- Acidic Condensation: The combustion process in fireplaces or stoves can produce acidic gases. When these gases condense inside the flue, they can gradually erode the terracotta, leading to decay.
- High Temperatures: Repeated exposure to high temperatures can weaken terracotta, causing it to crack or break down.
- Poor Maintenance: A lack of regular cleaning and maintenance can allow soot, creosote, and other debris to build up in the flue, which can trap moisture and accelerate deterioration.
- Age: Over time, natural wear and tear from years of use can cause the terracotta to degrade.
- Having your Chimney and Flue inspected once a year could help keep the furnace and water heater from breaking down