Garanterm MGR 80N is a water heater of a “classical” design, the internal tank of which is covered with glass enamel. The device is assembled quite well, the electrical part with the protective block is especially respectful. Initially, cleaning the Garanterm MGR 80N water heater was not planned; it was only necessary to move it to the right place. But during this operation, it turned out that cleaning was indispensable; residual water with abundant scale was splashing in the tank. In addition, it was a good idea to evaluate the condition of the magnesium anode.
First stage: turning off electricity and water
So, the first thing I did was turn off the power to the water heater by turning off the machine. Next, remove the plug from the socket. At first glance, I realized that this Garanterm MGR 80N was installed by a layman. Under no circumstances should you install a faucet on the supply pipe up to the safety valve - this can cause the tank to rupture. The supply valve is always installed before the safety valve. The second tap, on the source pipe, is installed without any sense: if you turn off the supply, water will not flow out of the source pipe (with the exception of 500-1000 ml). In general, to drain the water from the tank, I had to turn off the common tap for the entire apartment.
Stage two: draining the water
Having turned off the supply, I dismantled the safety valve and drained the water into the toilet using a hose. It would be possible to drain the water through the trigger, but it would take a long time, and besides, the valve prevented me from removing the plastic casing at the bottom of the tank. After the tank was almost empty, I dismantled the casing by unscrewing three screws that were hidden under decorative plastic plugs. After dismantling the casing, I had to dismantle the electrical components of the water heater.
Third stage: dismantling electrical components
The pictures above show a general view of the electrical components. They need to be dismantled. Before dismantling, I advise you to photograph this unit in order to avoid problems during reassembly. The sequence of actions is as follows: 1. Carefully remove the terminals from the contacts of the heating element. 2. Unscrew the screw with the grounding wire. 3. Unscrew the screws of the power cord clamp. 4. Unscrew the screws of the protective block. 5. Carefully remove the protection and thermostat sensors from the socket.
Stage four: dismantling the flange cover
The Garanterm MGR 80N model, unlike some other water heater models, is easy to maintain. If the hole were even wider so that the hand could fit through, it would be even more convenient to work. So, you need to unscrew 5 screws (indicated in the photo). Before proceeding with disassembly, you should place a container to collect water under the flange.
Fifth stage: dismantling the flange
Carefully prying up the flange, I began to remove it. Due to the fact that a lot of scale had accumulated on the heating element and the anode, this was not easy to do. Things began to progress after I carefully cleared the space between the bends of the heating element tube from scale. After complete removal, I was able to assess the condition of the working electrical elements of the water heater. There was no damage to the heating element; the magnesium anode, despite some wear, I decided not to replace for now. I removed large scale particles mechanically, and small ones by soaking in a solution of citric acid.
Stage six: descaling the tank
The easiest way to clean the tank from scale is if the water heater is suspended above the bathtub. It is enough to wash the surface of the internal tank with a hose, and the scale and water will be removed. But in my case, the water heater was already dismantled. So I had to pour water into an inverted water heater and pour it out. After 5-6 similar procedures, the tank was cleaned.
Seventh stage: reassembly
After removing the remaining scale, I started reassembling in the reverse order: installing the flange gasket and the flange itself. After this operation, I installed the water heater in a new location and installed a tap on the supply pipe in the right place. Next, I installed all the electrical components, the protective casing, supplied water, filled the tank, and checked all the joints for leaks. After checking, I turned on the power and heated the water.
Valuable recommendations on how to clean water heater heating elements from scale
Modern water heating devices make human life much easier.
But in order to extend the period of perfect operation of boilers, it is necessary to regularly monitor their condition. Maintenance procedures include cleaning the heating element from limescale. There are many means and methods for removing scale. These include folk recipes and ready-made household chemicals.
How to clean the heating element of a water heater from scale, read the article.
Why clean?
During the process of heating water, some of the salts contained in it precipitate and accumulate on the inner walls of the boiler and the water heating element.
Limescale is characterized by low thermal conductivity, so as it accumulates, the water heating time lengthens.
This fact causes significant inconvenience when using the device. But, unfortunately, this is not the only negative consequence of scale deposits.
Long-term operation of the boiler entails an increase in electricity consumption , and, consequently, money expenditure.
In addition, the load on the device itself increases.
How often?
Experts recommend carrying out preventive cleaning of the heating element once a year . If the device operates under increased load, it is advisable to increase the frequency to twice a year.
In this case, it is always necessary to monitor the operation of the water heater. There are several signs that indicate the need for cleansing.
The time for cleaning has come if:
- water takes longer to heat up than usual;
- power consumption has increased;
- the device makes noise during operation;
- the case and sockets become very hot;
- the water has acquired a yellowish tint;
- a hydrogen sulfide smell appeared in the water;
- the boiler turns on and off.
If a white coating remains on the taps, it means that the water hardness is increased. In this case, the water heater requires more careful maintenance.
Main types of water heater breakdowns
Even simple heating devices sometimes break down. If malfunctions occur, owners must contact company representatives to obtain warranty service.
- Sometimes water heater tanks begin to leak. If a problem is detected, the equipment should be disconnected from the power supply, shut off the water supply and empty the tanks.
- Due to poor quality water, the heating element becomes covered with scale, its ability to heat water is reduced, and it burns out. If the heating element burns out, the owners must turn off the device from the network and call a technician to replace the heating element.
Preventative cleaning of the heating element is performed as follows:
- Turn off the water and electricity supplies.
- Drain water from tanks.
- Unscrew the bolts holding the panel on the sides of the device.
- Using a wrench and a screwdriver, remove the heating elements.
- Remove scale with citric acid poured into the tank for 3–5 minutes.
You can remove a small layer of scale with a knife. To do this, hold the heating element with one hand, and carefully remove the scale with the other.
How to disassemble a boiler?
Before proceeding directly to the cleaning procedure, the device must be disassembled and the water heating element removed from it.
Disassembly work is carried out following a certain algorithm:
- The device is disconnected from the power supply.
- The pipe through which water is supplied is blocked.
- Close the cold flow valve near the boiler.
- Open the hot water tap on the nearby mixer.
- A hose is connected to the drain fitting and the water is released.
- Remove the water heater from the wall and turn it over.
- Unscrew the mounting bolts from the tank pan.
- Remove the panel and take out the thermostat holder.
- Unscrew the screws on the protective door and remove it.
- Disconnect the contacts, freeing the wires.
- Remove the rubber seal.
- Take out the heating element.
Important Tips
Cleaning a boiler is a simple process, but it is better not to carry out the procedure alone - water heaters can be very heavy.
- If you use chemicals, make sure that they do not come into contact with rubber seals - they may lose elasticity, causing the boiler to leak.
- Double check every operation you perform. The water heater will not work after assembly if done incorrectly.
- Connect and disconnect power only when the tank is full of water.
- When you have finished flushing, fill the boiler with water and wait a while. If the flange does not leak, great, you can use the device.
- If you use chemicals, be sure to wear gloves and a protective mask.
Now you know how to clean a boiler without calling a technician. This is a fairly simple and relatively quick process that any owner can handle. The main thing is to carry out this operation in a timely manner so that the device serves you for a long time. Remember: professional boiler repair is a costly process.
The Garanterm water heater is a universal source of hot water at any time. A dry heating element is used as a heater. For owners of houses without gas supply, an electric boiler is the most reliable and economical way to provide themselves with hot water.
How to get the heating element?
The process of removing the heating element must be very careful.
This rule is especially important to follow if cleaning has not been carried out for a long time. Significant accumulated deposits may not allow you to quickly remove the element , and sudden movements can cause damage.
Having taken out the heating block, it is also necessary to inspect the magnesium anode. If the degree of its depletion is close to the maximum, then it is advisable to immediately replace this element with a new one. Otherwise, after some time you will have to repeat the disassembly of the unit.
How to remove lime deposits?
The removed heating element is cleaned in two ways: mechanical and chemical . If the lime deposits are thick, then both methods are used together.
First, large deposits are removed from the tubular part using physical force, and then the remaining limescale marks are removed chemically.
To do this, fill a cylindrical container (for example, an enamel bucket) with cleaning liquid and lower the heating element into it. The exposure time depends on the nature of the reagent.
How to remove using folk remedies?
To dissolve the solid salt deposit on the heating element, it is necessary to use substances with an acidic reaction. Used as home cleaners:
Lemon acid . Pour two 25 gram packets of powder into a liter of water. When all the crystals have dissolved, a heating element is lowered into the solution. Leave for a day, after which the heating element is washed in clean water.
- Acetic acid . If a vinegar solution of medium concentration (9%) is used for cleaning, then take 5 tablespoons per liter of water.
If only essence is available, then its quantity should be 2 tablespoons for the same volume of water. The holding time is 10-12 hours.
- Mechanical cleaning . To remove limestone, use a metal brush, scraper, or sandpaper. The method is labor-intensive and cannot be used to clean the anode.
If there is too much scale, then the amount of reagent can be increased, and the metal container with the solution and heating element can be placed on low heat and heated for 30-60 minutes.
How to remove plaque with household chemicals?
Ready-made liquids sold in household chemical stores are distinguished by a special composition that guarantees the effectiveness of cleansing. Various companies produce such products:
- Boiler-Cleaner . Acid remedy. The liquid is used against carbonate salts and iron oxide. The composition includes a complex of acids, an anti-corrosion additive and substances that enhance the effect of the main reagents. To clean a contaminated surface, the liquid is mixed with water to obtain a concentration of 5 to 12%. The heating element is lowered into the solution and kept for 8 hours. The cost of a 5-liter canister is on average 480 rubles.
- SteelTEX . The formula of the product includes surfactants and corrosion inhibitor additives. The liquid helps remove metal oxides, salts, rust, and biological inclusions from the heating element. According to the instructions for use, SteelTEX is diluted with water in a ratio of 1:6 to 1:10. The stronger the contamination, the stronger the solution should be. After washing, use an alkaline neutralizer. The price of the product (20 kg) is about 4,200 rubles.
- Cillit ZN/I . This reagent from a German manufacturer is designed to combat rust and lime salts. To treat heating elements, prepare a solution of 1 part of the product and 9 parts of water. The part is kept in the solution for 1-4 hours at a temperature of 20 to 40 degrees. If necessary, heating is allowed. The average cost of a 20 kg canister is 10,700 rubles.
Draining
Draining water occurs in several main stages:
- We close the water supply valve in the apartment.
- The easiest way is to drain the water from the water heater through a check valve. To do this, connect a hose to it, direct the other end into the bathroom or toilet and open the valve. You can simply place a bucket underneath and pour water out of it from time to time.
The disadvantage of this method is the long draining time. It may take you up to 4 hours to drain 100 liters of water from the boiler through the valve.
The water may be blocked by scale deposits at the bottom of the tank. In this case, you need to move it to the side by inserting a screwdriver into the hole from which water is pouring.
Features for devices from different manufacturers
The general scheme for removing the water heating element may have slight adjustments depending on the brand of the boiler. They are determined by the individual structure of the device and the method of installing the heating element. The following boilers have disassembly features:
- Ariston. To remove the cover with the heating element, you must first insert it inside the housing. If the part does not give in, rock it slightly and try again. The heating element is taken out sideways, as it has a curved shape. On some models, this part needs to be turned counterclockwise.
Gorenja. To remove the front panel on the tank, you need to lightly press its lower edge and pull it towards you. Once the latches have engaged, the panel is removed.
The boilers of this company are heavy, so it is better to lift and turn the device together.
Preparing for cleaning
Cleaning your water heater is not a very complicated process and can be done on your own. After all the water has been drained, disassemble and remove the heating element. To do this, remove the decorative cover (most often it is secured with screws). In some boiler models, the parts we need are covered with a plastic panel. It is held on by clamps - just pry the bar off with a screwdriver.
Take a photo of the connection diagram so that you can return everything back after the procedure. Disconnect the wires to expose the thermostat. Get him out.
Scale is the number one enemy of boilers. If you do not periodically clean the heating element, it may become irreversibly damaged. Timely cleaning of the heating element will save you from wasting money and will significantly extend the life of the device. Carefully remove the heating element. Next to it you will see an annon that protects the insides of the tank from corrosion. See if it's intact. If not, replace the part with a new one.
How does scale harm the heating element of a washing machine and water heater?
Calcium compounds and other hardness salts are converted into solid particles when heated in the work area. These crystals form porous deposits on the protective body of the heating element, which are characterized by low thermal conductivity. To maintain the set temperature in such conditions, you will have to spend more electricity. When equipment is equipped with an electronic control system, malfunctions occur.
The main danger is local overheating!
At a certain level, the metal casing ruptures. If the seal is broken, a short circuit occurs. Such damage cannot be eliminated, so the damaged part is replaced with a new heating element.
A sudden increase in voltage (current) can damage the electronic components of the circuit. The cost of a complex control unit, together with restoration work in a service workshop, is comparable to the price of a new washing machine.
Additional costs arise after the formation of leaks in the heating system. If there is significant flooding, it may be necessary to repair apartments on the lower floors. Timely cleaning of the heating element of the washing machine from scale will prevent the listed emergency situations.
Is there any benefit to softening chemicals?
We've all seen the Calgon commercials that show a very dirty heating element and heating element after using the product. The second one just shines and looks brand new. It is clear that not everything is so wonderful, and the second ten is actually new, but does Calgon help even a little? The sad answer is no or very little. If you have very hard water, it will reduce the rate of scale formation by 10 percent, no more. At the same time, it costs tens of times more than vinegar or citric acid, which are easy to buy and use at home.
Choosing a filter to clean and protect the heating element from scale
To remove hard deposits, use acid. Aggressive chemical compounds destroy the housing of the heating elements. The protective shell can be damaged by insufficiently careful mechanical processing. In some situations, cleaning the heating element of a water heater from scale is carried out after complex dismantling. To eliminate unnecessary difficulties, filters and special water preparation are used.
Electromagnetic
The smallest particles of scale can be transformed using an alternating electromagnetic field. After such treatment, contaminants are not fixed on the hot surface, but are removed with the remaining detergents into the sewer. This technology does not use reagents, so maintenance is simplified. The operating status of the generator is checked by the LED indicator. Dust is periodically removed to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the compact device.
A significant advantage of equipment in this category is easy installation! The wire from the standard delivery kit is used to wind the induction coil. The device is connected to a 220V network. Signal generation is maintained automatically throughout the entire service life.
A powerful electromagnetic converter is capable of removing old scale from the heating element of a water heater. A strong electromagnetic field inhibits corrosion and destroys microorganisms.
To take advantage of the additional capabilities of the technology, buy a 20 W model with an extended frequency range - from 1 to 50 kHz.
When choosing a device, pay attention to the manufacturer’s restrictions on water hardness. High-quality equipment (AquaShield PRO) works effectively even at a level of 21 mEq/l. The reliability of this brand’s equipment is confirmed by a warranty extended to 7 years.
Polyphosphate
This filler binds molecules of hardness salts and prevents the formation of crystals. Polyphosphates form a film that does not allow impurities to attach to the surface of the heating element. Similar additives are used in washing powders to remove scale. However, a specialized dispenser with backfill is more effective.
Simple models of bulk-type polyphosphate filters are not capable of regulating flow or evenly distributing liquid flow in the working volume. For high-quality reproduction of the technology, buy a polyphosphate filter with a replaceable cartridge.
This method of protection is effective when installing the unit at a distance of up to 50 cm from the washing machine.
The beneficial properties of the treatment decrease at temperatures below +20°C and above +60°C. The operating mode of household appliances should be set taking into account the noted limitations.
Devices in this category are not suitable for treating water used for drinking and hygiene purposes. Polyphosphates cause allergic reactions. In excessive concentrations, they contaminate laundry and clog working ducts. Reliable protection against scale is provided when water hardness is no more than 7 mEq/l.
Cartridge
To protect against scale, you can use pre-softening. Ion exchange resin granules replace calcium compounds with harmless sodium salts. The technology is suitable for treating drinking water, as it does not pollute the water with harmful impurities.
For the convenience of users, the load is poured into a specialized cartridge. Serial replacement blocks are created with additional layers. Mesh and porous materials trap mechanical impurities.
Some models can be restored 4-6 times. This procedure is performed by sequential washing:
· regenerating solution of table salt.
The ion exchange resin is damaged:
To extend the service life of such protective devices, it is necessary to first remove the listed impurities.
The relatively small working volume of the cartridge limits the permissible hardness to 6 mEq/l. Experts recommend paying attention to performance and temperature when choosing. To simplify the search for compatible replacement units, buy a universal filter housing (SL or BB).
How else to clean the boiler heating element from scale?
You can use mechanical cleaning to remove scale from the water heater heating element. When performing work operations, use a staple or other tool made of soft material. Do not use abrasive discs that create scratches on the body.
Cleaning the heating element of a water heater from scale at home can be done using a specialized preparation. The following brands offer quality products in this category:
When choosing an anti-scale filter for a boiler, you should take into account the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the permissibility of processing steel products. To accurately reproduce the technology, it is necessary to maintain a certain temperature regime. Some drugs are effective in a limited pH range. How to clean the heating element of a water heater from scale without errors can be found out according to the instructions in the accompanying documentation.
The sequence of work operations is determined by the design features of household appliances. The washing machine can be cleaned without disassembling. The drug is poured into a container for powder or into a tank, after which the recommended mode is turned on.
As an example, we can take a detailed look at cleaning the heating element of a Thermex water heater from scale:
· shut off shut-off valves on the water supply main;
· turn off the machine in the electrical panel, remove the plug from the socket;
· attach a hose to the outlet duct and drain the liquid;
· disconnect the supply lines, open the check valve;
· for ease of disassembly, you can remove the heater from the wall and place it on a smooth surface with the bottom up;
· unscrew the mounting bolts, remove the protective cover (if the seal is broken, the manufacturer’s official warranty will be lost);
· disconnect the power wires;
· remove the heating element along with the sensors;
· use a plastic scraper to remove the top layer of scale;
· to dissolve the remaining plaque, immerse the heating element in an acid solution;
· clean the internal walls of the tank;
· restore damaged paint coating if necessary;
· carry out the collection in the reverse order;
· connect utility networks;
The universal instructions cannot indicate how to remove scale from the heating element of a water heater of a certain model. To eliminate erroneous actions, you need to photograph each stage of disassembly. At the same time, the condition of other structural elements and functional units is checked.
Lemon acid
With this product you can perform high-quality cleaning without extra costs. To clean heating elements from scale with citric acid, create a solution with a concentration of 4-10%. If the reagent content is insufficient, the duration of the procedure increases significantly. If the proportion is violated, the metal elements of the structure are damaged.
The previous instructions show how to clean the heating element from scale in a water heater. To work with a washing machine, you can apply the following algorithm:
· pour 3 tablespoons of citric acid crystals into the washing powder compartment;
· set a temperature mode of +90±5°C for 2 hours;
· add a double rinse program;
· After completing the treatment, clean the drain hose and filter.
Frequently performing the procedure damages metal parts.
Coca Cola
When figuring out how to remove scale from a heating element, you can find exotic “recipes” with potato peelings and other folk remedies. The popular carbonated drink also contains acid. However, the concentration of the active substance is not sufficient for rapid effective cleaning. Even after 10-15 days of treatment, it will not be possible to remove a thick layer of calcium deposits.
Saving money in this case does not matter much. Instead of expensive specialized products, you can use cheap vinegar essence or citric acid.
Our recommendations
Even the detailed instructions do not contain information on how to clean the boiler heating element from scale without damage with a reliable guarantee of a good result. Any strong acid will corrode metal. The use of a weak solution for a long period of time blocks the functionality of the equipment. Mechanical tools, even when handled with care, create microscopic scratches on surfaces. Repeated disassembly is not only tedious. Frequent routine maintenance accelerates the wear of fasteners and connections.
The listed disadvantages can be eliminated with the help of preventive protection. Of the listed options, the advantages of an electromagnetic converter should be noted. Such a device blocks the formation of scale in a washing machine and other equipment connected to the mains. Automation of work processes reduces the burden on the user. After this treatment, the water is not contaminated with foreign impurities.
Source
Installation methods
Installation of water heaters is very simple. It can be performed by anyone with due diligence and instructions. Each device comes complete with fasteners and everything necessary to connect the boiler to the water supply and electrical networks.
Types of fastenings
There are several types of water heater mountings. Each owner chooses a suitable model based on the characteristics of the place where the device will be installed:
- Horizontal is an excellent option for installing a boiler above a sink in a kitchen or bathroom. It is usually used in apartment buildings where saving space is a top priority.
- Vertical is the classic way to install boilers. It is used in private homes to save square meters in the boiler room or in apartments. Narrow water heaters located in small niches or in the corner of the room are the most economical option for placing equipment.
Some devices can be installed both vertically and horizontally.
Connection
Connecting to a single source is a simple and inefficient way to use a water heater. The 50 liter model is capable of providing water to several sources.
- Using the included mounts, the equipment is installed on the wall at a distance of 30 cm from the ceiling.
- The cold water supply pipe is equipped with a safety valve.
- Water is removed from the boiler. To do this, you need to open the water supply and drain valve.
- The water heater is connected to the electrical network using a special connector; if necessary, the owners can extend the wire themselves.
After completion of the work, all connections must be additionally sealed.
