Flushing your water heater is something that most homeowners overlook, but it’s actually very important for extending the life of your water heater and ensuring that it’s properly maintained. While flushing your water heater may sound like a chore, it’s actually not too difficult of a task, and it will end up saving you money in the long run.
If you’ve lived in your home for several years and you’ve never flushed your water heater, it’s probably due for a flush. Water heater’s should typically be flushed every 1 to 3 years.
Why Flush Your Water Heater?
Over time, water heaters collect sediment, such as calcium and other minerals. These sediments settle at the bottom of your tank, causing your tank to have to work harder to heat your water. If too much sediment builds up, it can create problems that are costly to repair, and may require you to replace your water heater entirely.
Our advice is to save yourself the headache, and simply flush your water heater. As a best practice, we recommend flushing your water heater once a year.
How To Flush Your Water Heater
Step 1: What You Need To Turn “Off.”
Thermostat - If you have a gas hot water heater, the thermostat is usually found at the bottom of the tank. If you have an electric water heater, you’ll need to find the breaker box for your home and turn off the power switch for your hot water heater.
Gas - If you have a gas water heater, find the gas pipe that connects to your pilot light and thermostat and switch the valve off.
Cold Water Supply - usually found near the top of your water heater, turn this off too.
Step 2: Turn Your Water Water On
Turn hot water on in your sink or tub, and leave the water running during the entire flushing process. This will prevent a vacuum from forming.
Step 3: Connect a Hose To Drainage Spigot & Drain
Connect your hose to the drainage spigot, and make sure that the other end of the hose leads outside or into a bucket. Then, drain your tank until the sediment is gone, and the water is clear.
Step 4: Flush
Now, you’re ready to flush! Turn your cold water spigot that runs into your hot water tank, and watch as more sediment flows out of your hose. This could take a while but continue the flush until your water is sediment-free.
If you have any questions or would rather have your hot water heater maintained by a professional, give us a call.