Sacramento County’s hard water is the biggest culprit behind premature water heater problems. High mineral content causes sediment buildup in tank systems and scale accumulation in tankless units, reducing efficiency and damaging components.
The sediment acts like insulation, forcing your system to work harder to heat water. Over time, this leads to overheating, thermostat failures, and tank corrosion. In tankless systems, mineral buildup clogs heat exchangers and damages flow sensors.
Age is another major factor. Most water heaters last 8-12 years, but Sacramento’s hard water can shorten that lifespan. Regular maintenance helps, but once you start seeing rusty water, inconsistent temperatures, or strange noises, repair or replacement becomes necessary.