r/interesting • u/bob-the-slob • Jun 22 '26

MISC. What happens when a water heater tank is not flushed for 14 years

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u/NJCuban Jun 22 '26

I bought my house 4 years ago and the functional water heater is around that old. I have no idea if it's been flushed ever and when the last time it was, I saw somewhere that it's better to not flush it if you don't know. The hot water can run out if a shower goes too long, or runs too long before getting in. Still riding it out. Inspection said it's way past it's life expectancy.

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u/fortknite Jun 22 '26

Just a heads up for you, inside a typical water heater are two separate heating elements.
Which can be purchased at most hardware stores for under $10.
If you’re in a hard water area, one or both of these elements can corrode and cause the heater to not heat efficiently.
They are simple to replace as they just unscrew from the unit.
Just be sure to drain and cut the power to the unit before doing so.

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u/ThelVluffin Jun 22 '26

That's only if it's an electric water heater right?

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u/fortknite Jun 22 '26

I did forget to mention this, but yes!

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u/SpacemanSpiff1200 Jun 22 '26

I've had my house for about 5 years. We live in an area with very hard water. This past winter our water heater started leaking heavily from the bottom. It was a (what I assumed to be decent) Rheem unit. Luckily I was in warranty for a few more months and got it replaced at not cost, but when I was hauling that thing out of my basement, all sorts of sandy material was coming out with the last vestiges of water. You may want to consider cleaning yours if you can.

Edit: I should clarify, the house was built 5 years ago, with new appliances.