Water Heaters - Black flakes in hot water

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TSWisla
01-12-08, 09:02 PM
Hello, I have a GE Smartwater 50 gal hot water tank with a 2004 manufacture date. I have a lot of black flakes coming out when I run the hot water, any idea what it is and how to stop it? Thank you.

Tom

Just Bill
01-13-08, 06:08 AM
It is probably the dip tube dissolving. The dip tube is under the cold inlet and directs cold water to the bottom of the tank. Once you get the supply line off, it is easy to remove/replace. The hard part is getting all the stuff out of the heater and lines, takes a lot of draining/flushing. And don't forget to clean out all the aerators, they will be clogged.
wkendplumber
06-23-08, 02:37 PM
I have a Rheem Pro80 electric with the same problem. I've done everything on earth to find and fix the problem short of replacing the hot water heater. It's a recirculating system, but I've checked the pump and replace the rotor cartridge to be absolutely sure. The pipes are copper, 8 years old, and the problem is not present in the cold water supply to the same tub.

WDIBAA
06-23-08, 03:12 PM
There might be a recall on your water heater. Sometimes only plumbers know the 800 number to call.