Water Heater Dip Tube

The Public Works Department occasionally receives calls from residents complaining of white particles in their tap water. In all instances reported so far, it has been determined that the water heater dip tube has failed. A dip tube is a plastic pipe inside the water heater tank that delivers cold water to the bottom of the tank, forcing hot water out of the top connection. The plastic can deteriorate over time, forcing plastic chips and smaller particles into the home plumbing system. While these chips do not pose a health risk, they can decrease water flow from household faucets and diminish water heater efficiency.

Background: Although dip tube problems are relatively new to Wilsonville, it is part of a national trend. The root of this problem can be traced back to 1993 when the manufacturer of water heater dip tubes changed the formula used to produce the dip tube plastic. Unfortunately, it was later determined that these plastic dip tubes were defective and deteriorated in a relatively short time. In 1997, the dip tube manufacturer improved its plastic formula and, along with water heater manufacturers, agreed to a class action settlement. Although the deadline for filing a claim to replace a defective dip tube was December 31, 2000, some water heater manufacturers continue to pay the cost of replacing a defective dip tube.

Symptoms: A resident may have a dip tube problem if:

The water heater was manufactured between 1993 and 1996. The stamped-on code on the data plate should include the year.

Faucet aerator screens and showerheads suddenly start to clog with white or tan particles and then clog quickly after cleaning them.

It takes much longer to get hot water. Also, the water may never seem to be as hot or last as long even though the thermostat on the water heater is set at its normal setting.

Remedies: If a resident believes they have a defective dip tube, the City of Wilsonville suggests they contact the water heater manufacturer to find out what assistance may be available. A list of the major water heater manufacturers and their telephone numbers is provided below:

A.O. Smith Corporation 1-800-527-1953
Bradford White Corporation 1-800-334-3393
American Water Heater Co. 1-800-999-9515
State Industries 1-800-365-0024
Rheem Manufacturing 1-800-432-8373