A water heater is used to warm draw water from the supply system and warm it for different uses at home, such as bathing, cooking, dishwashing, etc. They can also be used in factories for industrial purposes.
Regardless of the supply, water is usually loaded with impurities. Hard water, minerals, and sediments will reduce the heater’s lifespan and affect the general plumbing system, including faucets and showerheads.
To prevent this, it is recommended to use filters. This post outlines basic things you need to know about a water heater filter before purchasing one.
Water Heater Filters Overview
A filter protects the water heater from the harmful effects of minerals and impurities. Contrary to the name, water heater filters do not operate by filtering water. Instead, they have a mechanism that prevents water impurities from settling on the element or tank’s bottom.
For instance, the accumulation of minerals in a tankless water heater corrodes its internal parts, which calls for the installation of tankless water heater filters.
These filters have media that creates a protective layer safeguarding the heater and the plumbing system from corrosion.
Durability and Maintenance of a Water Heater Filter
The lifespan of a water filter depends on the amount of water used and the purity level. This means that a filter used with well water has a shorter lifespan than the one used with pretreated water.
Water heater filters require some maintenance procedures from time to time to operate at their best. Flush the tank regularly to remove accumulated dirt. Clean air filter to get rid of dust if you have tankless water heater filters since a lot of dust will inhibit efficiency and increase energy consumption.
Replace water heater filter cartridges every few months and clean the inlet and outlet of debris by opening the filter cover and using paper clips.
Qualities of a Good Water Heater Filter
The best water heater filter needs to have a strong body. The best cover material is stainless steel since it will withstand most corrosive elements found in water. Unlike plastics, stainless steel filters are expensive, last longer, and less likely to burst.
If you have to go for plastics due to your budget, ensure the housing is robust, single mold, and has pressure valves. Reject if you are needed to drill pressure holes manually as this weakens the body.
Final words on water heater filters.
There are several types of water heater filters on the market. So, it is important to ask why you need one. Testing your water in the laboratory allows you to analyze impurities and contaminants in the water, allowing you to choose the most suitable water heater filter.
Also, you need to confirm that the filtration rate aligns with your consumption volume. Lastly, whether you prefer tankless water heater filters or not, do not calculate your budget on the first cost alone.
Other factors like installation fees, operations, and maintenance are significant considerations. If possible, choose the ones that need less frequent changes of cartridges.
