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BULLETIN 13
MINERAL BUILD-UP
SYMPTOMS • Rumbling • Crackling • Popping
CAUSE With the increase in fuel costs and hot water consumption, deliming has become a
necessity of modern maintenance. Lime (CaCO3), is the most notable factor when
discussing water hardness. Lime is present in every water system to some degree.
Since lime is inversely soluble [the more you heat, the more lime comes out], higher
usage, excessive hardness, and increased heating surface can lead to a high
incidence of “limed-up” heaters.
Symptoms often include a popping of water trapped under lime deposits or the sizzling
of water trapped next to elements, boiling it to steam.
THE FIX Treatment of a “ limed-up“ heater is relatively simple. Since CaCO3 is a base, the
easiest way to dissolve it so it can be fl ushed from the heater is with an acid. The most
commonly used is phosphoric acid at a food-grade level.
Two available treatments are Mag-Erad® and Un-Lime®. Any well stocked plumbing
supply house should have a deliming solution available.
The directions on the product should be followed explicitly.
NOTES For additional information and instructions in deliming water heaters and boilers, please
refer to the following pamphlets available from the Technical Information Center listed
on the cover of this handbook:
• Why? When & How: To Remove Water Scale from Tank Type Water Heaters
• The Mag-Erad® Method of Cleaning Gas Fired Water Heaters
• Up-N-Down Transfer Kit
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