Hot water tank regenerating pump

[ronald]

At our previous residence here in Ft. Myers, we had 4 hot water tanks that had to replaced within a 7 year time frame.
We have since moved to a new house in 2011, (Different brand hot water tank) and as of today we have had to replace 2. Today will be the third one.
The common denominator:Both houses had a hot water recirculating pump installed. There can be no doubt that the pump has effected the "rod", and
as a result, caused the tank to leak. (major)
Fortunately this is covered under warranty, but plumbers should be aware of this serious problem.
Hope this hepls anyone thinking of getting one of these recirculating pumps.
BTW; Pump went on for 4 hours in the AM, and 3 hours in the PM.
Regards,
Ron Wolf

 

[IFIXH20]

Ron did a rep from the water heater company come out due to three water heater failure in such a short period, if so what did they say or find ?

 

[Caduceus]

I don't think that the recirc pump is the issue. So many tanks in such a short time sounds like a water softener is effecting the anode.
Recirc pumps have less to do with the life expectancy of a hot water tank and the anode than you may think.
Having a softener in your home may require frequent anode replacement or assessment of the softening equipment by a professional.
Some details would help, since your situation is unusual for normal use of a hot water tank.

 

[Beni]

Agree with Caduceus that its not the recirc pump. Ft. Myers as well as several other city's in Lee county use RO systems to "treat" the raw water. Mainly due to salt water intrusion into the aquifers. The RO water is highly reactive and does tend to cause excessive water heater failures. Its a problem in many places down in SW florida.

 

[johnjh2o]

We also have RO water were I live and the water company warns home owners not to use water softeners with there water.

John

 

[speedbump]

One thing about RO water is that the PH is lowered quite a bit, so now the water is acidic. That's probably not good for the plumbing and other things. Softeners usually are good for the plumbing and don't do much damage. They actually help keep the pipes clear of mineral deposits. They do not effect he Ph either.

The big thing to keep in mind, is that water is different everywhere you go, so it takes a totally different approach to treat it properly.

 

[IFIXH20]

I don't think that the recirc pump is the issue. So many tanks in such a short time sounds like a water softener is effecting the anode.
Recirc pumps have less to do with the life expectancy of a hot water tank and the anode than you may think.
Having a softener in your home may require frequent anode replacement or assessment of the softening equipment by a professional.
Some details would help, since your situation is unusual for normal use of a hot water tank.

This is exactly where I was headed.