Name a common cause of sediment buildup in water heaters.

Sediment buildup in water heaters is primarily caused by hard water deposits. Hard water contains high levels of minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. When the water is heated in the water heater, these minerals tend to precipitate out and accumulate at the bottom of the tank, forming sediment. Over time, this buildup can decrease the efficiency of the water heater and can lead to potential damage if not addressed.

Other factors, while they can affect the overall management of a water heater, do not directly contribute to sediment buildup in the same manner. For instance, corrosion of metal components can lead to rust and other concerns but does not create sediment in the tank. Regular use of the heater is essential for heating water but does not inherently lead to sediment formation. High temperature settings can cause other issues such as increased pressure or energy consumption but are not a direct cause of sediment accumulation. Thus, the presence of hard water, leading to mineral deposits, is the primary factor in the formation of sediment in water heaters.