The mineral crust that builds up on the inside of a water heater storage tank is known as?

The mineral crust that accumulates on the inside of a water heater storage tank is referred to as scale. Scale primarily consists of calcium and magnesium deposits that form when hard water is heated. As the water temperature rises, these minerals can precipitate out of the water and settle on the tank's interior surfaces, leading to reduced efficiency and potentially damaging the tank over time. The presence of scale not only affects the performance of the water heater but also can increase energy costs due to the decreased efficiency of heat transfer.

Understanding scale is essential for maintenance, as regular flushing and descaling procedures can prolong the life of the water heater and maintain its efficiency. This preventive care is often overlooked until significant issues arise, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing scale in plumbing systems.