How To Drain a Water Heater

Most water heaters use a large, insulated tank to provide a steady supply of hot water for various household needs. Over time, minerals, sand, and grit from the water can accumulate at the bottom of the tank. This sediment buildup can reduce the water heater’s efficiency and capacity, potentially causing blockages and interfering with maintenance, leading to premature failure. 

Draining your water heater to remove sediment is a simple DIY task that requires minimal time and basic tools. Regularly draining your water heater is essential for its maintenance. If you’re unsure how to do it, don’t worry! In this blog, we’ll guide you on how to drain a water heater and let you know when it’s time to call in the professionals.

Why Should You Drain A Water Heater?

The longer you go without draining and flushing your water heater, the more sediment and minerals will build up at the bottom of the tank. This buildup, known as scaling, can cause serious issues. You might have seen scale as the hard mineral deposits on your sink faucets and shower heads. In your water heater, scaling can lead to:

• Reduced Efficiency: Scaling at the bottom of the tank makes your water heater less effective at heating water.

• Corrosion: Without regular flushing, corrosion can attack the tank, weakening its structure.

• Safety Risks: Scaling can block the pressure-relief valve, which is essential for preventing dangerous pressure buildup in the tank.

The bottom line is that regular draining and flushing of your water heater is crucial to maintain its efficiency, prevent damage, and ensure safety. Unsure on how to drain a water heater? Keep on reading!

How To Drain a Water Heater

Before starting, locate your home’s main water shutoff valve. Although you might not need it for this process, it’s essential to know its location in case of any plumbing issues. Since this task involves working with very hot water it’s a good idea to wear heavy-duty rubber gloves to protect your hands and safety glasses to shield your eyes from hot water splashes. Now, let’s start with our pressing matter here, learning how to drain a water heater. 

• Turn Off the Water Heater

For gas water heaters, set the thermostat to “pilot.” For electric water heaters, shut off the power at the breaker box. It’s crucial to turn off electric water heaters completely during the flushing process to prevent exposed heating elements from burning out if the water level drops below them.

• Attach Hose to Drain Valve

Locate the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and attach a standard garden hose. Place the other end of the hose in a floor drain or outside where it can drain safely. If you use buckets, handle them carefully to avoid burns from hot water.

• Open Hot Water Tap

Open the nearest hot water tap, preferably one on the floor above. This helps relieve pressure in the system, allowing the tank to drain more efficiently.

• Open Drain Valve

Using a flathead screwdriver, open the drain valve and let the water flow out. The water will be hot, so take precautions. Once the tank is empty, briefly turn on the cold water supply to stir up and remove any remaining sediment. Repeat this process until the water runs clear. If sediment blocks the drain valve, consider calling a professional for assistance.

• Close Valve, Refill Tank, and Restart Water Heater

Close the drain valve, remove the hose, and turn on the cold water supply. Allow the tank to fill up. Once cold water flows from the hot water tap you opened earlier, turn it off. Finally, turn the gas valve back on or restore power to the electric heater. Check the valve for leaks to ensure it is properly closed.

Have in mind to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific water heater! Need assistance or maybe you’re still not sure of doing it on your own? Then call Local Service Pro Plumbing today!