In article ,
MNRebecca wrote:
[ ... ]

What chipped off last week was about 1/16th of an inch thick, chalky
white on the outside and dark-colored on the inside...black or dark
green, maybe, like stuff is that comes in contact with copper?
Thoughts?

I'm inclined to agree with your plumber. Sounds like lime buildup from
hard water; removing it will let your element heat the water more
efficiently (the buildup acts like insulation) and prolong the life
of the element.


Gary

--
Gary Heston http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/

Did you hear about the new saint, San Adreas? He's the patron saint of
blame, it's all his fault.