I’m not a natural romantic. Thoughtful, maybe. But it is something I have to think about to act on it. When I do, I’m always a big hit.

My wife mentioned very casually that there didn’t seem to be enough hot water for a proper soak – with emphasis on HOT.

We know about hot water tanks and how they can fill up with sediment, sludge, or whatever it is called. This sediment settles at the bottom of the tank and takes up space that the water should be in. We both thought the tank needed a flush to get us back our full 40-gallon water space.

Lois had read about a plumbing company on her Facebook neighbourhood chat that we hadn’t used before. They received many positive mentions and didn’t charge a call-out fee. I had never heard of a home service company without a call-out sheet. I wondered how they could be any good. The positive reviews and the nature of a straightforward tank flush tipped the scales to give them a try.

The company’s owner arrived at our door right on time at 8:30 a.m. There was no 4-hour window, making us prisoners in our own home.

Since Lois was initiating the service call, she did the meet-and-greet while I munched away on my breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, and toast with a chaser of my favourite coffee.

It was only minutes, and they both came up the basement stairs with a verdict.

I learn stuff every day.

Our water heater was 9 years old. The sludge had solidified at the bottom of the tank, and a flush would have removed only 20%. Our call—a no-brainer—we’ll get a new heater.

I used the average lifetime of a hot water heater, which is 10 years. Home insurance policies usually use that as a guideline to get a new tank to avoid massive water damage from a cracked water heater. This is similar to having my home checked every couple of days when we are away on a trip.

Who knew? There is a ‘sacrificial rod’ in the heater that attracts particles to save the tank’s walls. The warranty is for 6 years. We added a second rod made of titanium, which extends the warranty to 10 years. Because of an upcoming home show, it was free. It’s nice dealing directly with the owner, who can make these deals on the spot.

There was no charge for the call-out.

Better hot baths for my wife, a new 10-year run with a new water heater. And a bonus titanium rod.

Oh, did I mention that it is my wife’s birthday?

Ever the romantic, even if it was coincidental. Sometimes, a plan just comes together. (insert smiley emoji here.) Yes, I intended that text. (insert another smiley one here.)

In keeping with the times, I asked the plumber something I wouldn’t have done a few months ago. Where is the tank manufactured?

“In Mexico by an American company.”

Oh well, not perfect but it will do. Baby steps.

Please give this a bit of a think. What is one of the most strange but memorable romantic gestures you’ve done?

I am curious about your thoughts. Please comment below with your bit of a think.

Photo by Jose Chomali on Unsplash

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