As a homeowner, you may not think about your water heater often, but it is an essential appliance that provides hot water for your household. Unfortunately, mineral deposits and sediment can build up inside your water heater over time, reducing efficiency and even causing damage. Regularly flushing your water heater can help remove these deposits and extend your appliance’s lifespan. So here’s a step-by-step guide on how to flush your water heater from General Service Plumbing.

Step 1: Turn off the Power

Before beginning, turn off the power supply to your water heater. If you own an electric water heater, you can turn off its power at the circuit breaker. But if you own a gas water heater, you’ll turn off the gas supply valve, which you can find near the gas pipe leading to your thermostat.

Step 2: Turn off the Cold Water Supply

Locate the cold water supply valve near the top of your water heater and turn it off. This will prevent new water from entering the tank while flushing it.

Step 3: Turn On The Hot Water

Turn on the hot water at one of your sinks or tubs. Let it run while draining the tank to alleviate pressure in your lines.

Step 4: Drain the Tank

You can find a drain valve near the bottom of your water heater. Attach a garden hose and run the other end to a drain or outside. Next, open the valve and let the water drain from the tank. Be careful, as the water will be hot. You can stop draining the tank once the water appears clear and sediment-free. Tanks with large amounts of sediment may have to be drained completely.

Step 5: Flush the Tank

Once you drain the tank, turn the cold water supply valve back on to allow fresh water to flush any remaining sediment out of the tank. Let the water run until transparent, then turn off the cold water supply.

Step 6: Refill the Tank

Close the drainage valve and remove the garden hose. Turn the cold water supply valve back on and let the tank refill. It would be best to leave the hot water faucet (that you turned on in step 3) running to allow air to escape from the tank.

Step 7: Turn the Power Back On

Once the tank is full, turn the power supply back on at the circuit breaker or gas valve, depending on whether you own an electric or gas water heater. Your hot water should run like usual again after 20-30 minutes.

Need Help? Contact General Service Plumbing Today

Flushing your water heater is a simple task that can help improve its efficiency and extend its lifespan. We recommend flushing out your water heater at least once a year, although this may vary depending on your water hardness and appliance’s age. If you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself, contact a licensed plumber like General Service Plumbing to assist you. We’re happy to answer any questions or concerns and ensure your water heater functions properly.

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