Tank water heaters are a reliable way to provide a fast supply of hot water for your home. The inclusion of a storage tank ensures some hot water is always available. But over time, foreign substances can build up in the storage tank. This could be sediment or mineral buildup coming from the main water line or an opening in the pipes. Whatever the source is, this buildup could negatively impact the efficiency of water heaters. In severe cases it can plug up drainage and may even lead to premature failure.
Thankfully, draining your water heater and clearing out sediment buildup is a relatively simple task. A certified plumber in Wheeling can handle the process, but you can also drain the tank on your own if you know what you’re doing. Whatever you choose, draining the tank now can help lower the risk you’ll need premature water heater replacement.
Before You Begin…
Before you start draining the tank, you’ll want to shut off the cold water supply. The supply valve connects your water heater with the main water line. Unless you have access to a well (and you might need to drain the tank more regularly if you do), the water main provides all the potable water your home uses. Keeping the valve closed will prevent more water from reaching the tank, allowing you to completely empty it.
You’ll also want to fetch a rubber hose, like one you can use for yard work. The hose allows you to safely drain the water heater tank without spilling water all over your garage, utility closet, attic or wherever the water heater is stored. Make sure you place the other end of the hose far away from your home to prevent the water from flowing back inside.
Finally, a screwdriver will help you loosen stubborn screws or valves. You shouldn’t need any more tools than this unless you come across a problem with the water heater or nearby piping. At that point, it may be best to call a certified plumber in Wheeling.
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Heater
After you’ve cut off the water supply, you can shut off the water heater itself. This should be on the thermostat for natural gas water heaters or via a breaker switch for electric models. The pilot setting on gas water heaters can remain on during flushing, but electric models need to be completely off. This is due to the heating elements electric water heaters have, which remain submerged. In a drained tank, they could quickly overheat. You should also review the model’s manual, as some water heaters must be completely full before the heating elements are reactivated.
Even after you’ve shut off the water heater, you’ll need to wait for the water stored in the tank to cool down. It can be hours before the water cools to a safe temperature, so it may be best to leave the remaining steps for the following day.
Step 2: Connect the Hose to the Water Heater’s Drain Valve
Tank water heaters have a drain valve you can use to empty the storage tank. Once you’re certain the water supply is disconnected and the water heater itself is off, locate the drain valve. Some models will have it covered up. Make sure the hose is firmly attached to prevent spilling hot water near you and the water heater.
Step 3: Open a Faucet or Other Hot Water Tap
Your home’s plumbing uses pressure inside the piping to maintain a consistent flow of water from the main water line to the rest of the house. This pressure will have to be relieved before the hot water can actually flow from the tank. By heading to the closest faucet or spigot, you’ll alleviate the pressure inside the piping. All you have to do is open the hot water tap to relieve the pressure before returning to the water heater.
Step 4: Release the Drain Valve
Remember that this water might still have some residual heat. Open the drain valve and allow all the water to drain from the tank. This should carry sediment buildup out of the tank and away from your home. But some buildup might be stuck to the inside of the tank. Turning the cold water supply back on will help wash away stubborn minerals and other substances from the tank.
Repeat this step until the water looks clear of sediment or minerals. If the drain isn’t working because of an obstruction, a trained plumber is likely required.
Step 5: Re-Shut the Valve Before Refilling the Water Heater
If everything proceeds normally, you should be able to remove most excess sediment hiding inside your water heater. Seal up the drain valve, detach the hose and open the water supply to get things flowing again. As the water heater tank begins to fill, head back to the hot water tap you opened. Once cold water starts to flow, you know the pressure is back at appropriate levels.
At this point, you can open the gas valve or flip the breaker switch back on. Like we mentioned before, don’t forget that certain models may need to be totally full before the water can be safely heated. Make sure you check your manufacturer’s instructions before starting the process.
Keep Your Water Heater Sediment-Free for Best Results
Tank water heaters are still a great option for supplying your hot water needs. Draining the tank every 1-2 years will help flush sediment buildup and keep things running at peak efficiency. If you think your water heater is past the point of efficient heating, consider looking for
water heater replacement in Wheeling from a technician you trust.