Over time, sediment from your home’s water supply can build up and impair the performance of the water heater. The sediment reduces the amount of water that can be stored in the tank, which forces the heater to work harder and use more energy to keep up with your family’s hot water use.
To prevent this from happening, flush out the sediment from your tank every six months to one year.
Things You’ll Need:
- Garden hose
- Screwdriver or stiff wire (if needed)
You probably already have these materials to flush your water heater. Next..
Instructions
- Shut off the power to the water heater by switching the circuit breaker to the “Off” position. Close the gas supply valve if you are flushing a gas water heater.
- Connect a garden hose to the water heater’s drain valve. Find a location where it is safe to allow the water (which will still be hot if you only recently turned off the water heater) to drain without harming any plants, kids, or pets. Set the open end of the garden hose in the spot you have selected.
- Open the heater’s drain valve and let the water run out until the tank is empty. Turn the water supply to the heater back on to allow clean water to run through the tank and out the drain valve. Let the water run until it is clear when it comes out of the garden hose.
- Shut the drain valve and unscrew the garden hose. Open the gas supply valve, if applicable, to your water heater. Switch the circuit breaker back to the “On” position.
Hints:
Disconnect the garden hose and clean out the drain valve with a screwdriver or stiff wire if the sediment is blocking the flow of water.
Do not drain the water heater tank onto your lawn or garden. The sediment may soak into the soil and damage the plants.
Wear heat-resistant gloves or allow the garden hose to cool off completely before handling it after draining the water heater.
Why is It Necessary to Flush a Water Heater?
As sediment builds up in your tank, it hinders the efficient operation of your water heater. Eventually, the accumulation of sediment can harm your water heater, necessitating its replacement.
Some of the benefits of regularly flushing your water heater are:
- Prolongs its life
- Heats water more quickly
- Reduces noise of the appliance
How Often Should I Flush My Water Heater?
It’s generally a good idea to flush your water heater tank once a year, but some tanks might need it more frequently.
One helpful way to figure out how often to flush is by keeping an eye on the amount of sediment that comes out during flushing. If you notice a lot of sediment each time, it might be a sign that your tank needs more frequent attention.
Is There Any Way to Prevent Sediment Buildup?
Installing a whole-house filtration system can have a substantial impact, particularly if you’re contending with gritty well water. These systems are quite straightforward to install for individuals with adept plumbing skills.
The primary advantage lies in their ability to not only reduce sediment accumulation but also to significantly prolong the lifespan of all plumbing fixtures and household appliances. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of the filtration system may vary based on the specific minerals in the water.
While some dissolved minerals may still accumulate in the tank, the overall reduction in sediment and mineral buildup can make a considerable difference.
