To maintain your water heater, you must remove the sediment that builds up over time, which can be done by flushing it. This not only improves its efficiency but also extends its longevity with time. You might find the water heater’s performance has degraded, affecting energy consumption, which happens as minerals from hard water keep accumulating at the bottom of the tank. So, here is a step-by-step guide to flushing the water heater safely.
- Step 1: Turn Off the Power or Gas
If you have a gas water heater, the first step is to turn off the gas valve to the position “off.” You can also shut the gas off directly from the main valve. However, if you have an electrical water heater, you need to switch off the breaker from the electrical panel to avoid damaging the heating element while you are flushing the water heater.
- Step 2: Shut Off the Water Supply and Open a Hot Water Faucet
You have to look for the cold water inlet valve that supplies water to the heater and turn it off to prevent fresh water from entering the tank during the process. Next, you must relieve the pressure built into the system so air can enter the tank. This will ensure a smoother draining process.
- Step 3: Attach a Hose to the Drain Valve
There is a drain valve located at the bottom of the heater, which you must connect to the garden hose and run it. For safe drainage, you can choose a floor drain or any outer space. If you find it difficult to proceed, seek help from a professional who provides HQ Water Solutions.
- Step 4: Drain the Tank
You must allow the tank to the empty by opening the drain valves. However the drainage speed can vary depending on the tank size and the amount of sediment it has accumulated over time You should always be careful with this drainage water as it can be hot and verify whether there are signs of sediments or discoloration as the water comes out
- Step 5: Flush the Tank
Next you must turn on the cold water supply for a very short time which will remove the remaining sediments However you must do this while the drain valve is still open You must flash the tank a few times until the water running out is the clear.
- Step 6: Refill the Tank and Restore Power or Gas
Lastly, you will need to close the drain valve, disconnect the hose, and turn the cold water inlet valve to refill the tank until you received steady flow. But you must leave the old faucet running. You also need to restore the power or gas, by first flipping the circuit breaker for the electrical heater back on and then lighting the pilot light of the gas heater again. And make sure your temperature’s between 120-130°F to be safe.
Conclusion
You are required to choose regular flushing 1x a year to avoid sediment deposits. You should also check the drain valves and other connections for leakage and tighten the fittings to mitigate these problems.
