How to Flush a Water Heater
9/8/2020 (Permalink)
5 Steps To Flush a Water Heater
Flushing a water heater can maintain its functionality. The tank in this appliance can fill up with minerals and sediment, depending on the water quality at your residence. These five steps walk a homeowner through the water heater flush procedure.
- Turn Off the Heater
Switch off the power to an electric heater at a circuit breaker. For a gas unit, turn off the valve and extinguish the pilot light.
- Connect a Hose
Attach a garden hose of sufficient length to the drain valve on the heater and run the other end to a floor drain or outside. Make sure that the destination will not suffer as a result of exposure to mineral deposits.
- Drain the Tank
Open the water heater drain valve and allow water to flow for several minutes. Turn on a sink hot water spigot to drain remaining water. Turn the water supply valve on and off to flush the tank.
- Close the Valves
Close the drain valve and turn the cold water supply back on. Then, turn on the hot water spigot at a sink or tub. The water will be cold, but this will push air out of the system. Turn the spigot off once the flow becomes consistent.
- Turn the Heater Back On
Restore the power to an electric heater from a circuit panel or turn on the flow of gas and relight the pilot. It may take up to 20 minutes to produce hot water.
Perform a water heater flush at least once a year. Follow these steps every eight months in a household of three to five residents, or every six months in a household with more than six residents.
If a water heater leak results in damage to your home or business, contact an appliance repair professional and a water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Livingston, Demopolis & Butler at 334-287-1144.