Rumbling sounds coming from a water heater are an indication that
sediment has built up on the bottom of the water heater. What you are hearing is water
that is trapped in the sediment and is boiling. This is an indication that the water
heater is not operating efficiently. Sediment will not allow the heat to transfer to the
water in the tank, which sends the heat up the flue.
You may try draining a few gallons of water off the bottom of the
water heater tank. This is done by attaching a drain hose to the valve at the bottom of
the tank. Allow it to drain for about five minutes.
WARNING: HOT WATER IS DANGEROUS. DISCHARGE THE WATER INTO A FLOOR
DRAIN, LAUNDRY TUB OR BATHTUB. HOT WATER WILL KILL YOUR GRASS IF DISCHARGED ONTO THE
LAWN. HOT WATER WILL CRACK A TOILET BOWL IF DISCHARGED INTO THE TOILET.
Many newer models of water heaters have a new feature that prohibits the buildup of
sediment in the tank. If your heater is an older model, it may be cost effective to
replace the water heater if the buildup is severe.
Cleaning Home Fixtures
Q) How can I clean my faucets and fixtures?
Multiple Answers:
Faucets:
With any type of finish, the most important thing to remember is that hot water and a soft cloth is all you usually need to keep the faucets looking like new. Over a period of time, you may see a build-up of calcium, soap, or iron deposits around the handles or aerator. In this case, using a mild household soap along with the hot water should help remove those deposits. After every use or cleaning, it is always best to wipe dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spotting and mineral build-up.
Cast Iron and China Products:
Regular non abrasive bathroom cleaners work great for a thorough cleaning of all cast iron or china products. Just like with faucets, it is important to never let calcium or iron deposits build-up over a period of time. It is important to not use cleaners containing ammonia, bleach, abrasives, or other strong chemicals, as these can damage some finishes.
Stainless Steel Sinks:
At least once a week the sink should be cleaned with a mildly abrasive cleanser, such as Comet. By rubbing back and forth in the same direction of the 'grain', you will remove the stubborn stains and greasy film build-up and also blend usage scratches into the satin finish of the sink. Rinse and wipe with clean dry cloth when finished. Steel wool pads should never be used to clean your sink as they leave small iron particles in the grain lines which rust and can damage the sink.
Marble Vanity Tops:
The best way of maintaining marble’s overall cleanliness is with lukewarm water, a soft cloth and an occasional wipe down with a mild, non-abrasive detergent. The marble should be thoroughly wiped dry after such cleaning. Remember that marble has a slightly unstable chemistry and is quite delicate. Calcium carbonate (which is what marble basically consists of) will immediately and dramatically react with any kind of acid, resulting in pitting and scarring.
