Draining a water heater is a relatively simple process. It is so easy for your grandma can do it. Follow these steps to flush out any buildup of sediment, minerals, and other debris that causes it to malfunction. But first, let’s gather all the tools you will need for this process.
Tools Needed
- Adjustable wrench
- Garden hose
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Bucket
- Drain valve
- Threaded hose cap
Here’s What You Do:
1. Connect Hose and Quick Flush
Start by connecting your garden hose to the drain valve and run it outdoors or into a bucket. Then, flush the water by opening the drain valve and closing it again. To this a couple of times, allowing the water to run for a few seconds. Doing this will help the sediment to begin flowing through the drain valve faster.
2. Turn Off the Power/Gas and Water in the Water Heater.
Once you perform the quick flush, turn off the power or gas to the water heater to prevent electrocution of burns. Also, turn off the water to the water heater to prevent any new water from flowing into the tank.
3. Open the Drain Valve
Now, it is time to start the actual draining process. Open the drain valve using your hand or flathead screwdriver.
4. Let the Water Run Until Clear
Once the drain valve is open, allow the water to run through the hose. If you’re using a bucket, you may need to close the valve a few times to dump the water out to prevent overflow. You will need to repeat this process until the water is clear of sediment debris.
5. Clean Out the Remaining Sediment
When the water runs clear, look inside the tank. You may discover an accumulation of sediment at the bottom of the tank. Using your bucket, scoop the sediment out. This will cause another gush of sediment to flow out of the hose. Allow it to run until it is clear.
6. Shut the Valve & Disconnect the Hose
When the water is clear, shut off the drain valve and allow the hose to drain out all the water. Then, disconnect it from the valve.
7. Turn The Water Heater Back On
Go through your home and make sure that all hot water taps are turned off except one. Turn the water back onto the water heater. You may need to reenergize the unit by slightly opening the drain valve. Check the left tap is turned on to ensure the water flowing out of it is clear. Once you’ve verified that it’s clear, turn it off.
8. Relight the Water Heater
Now it is time to turn the power back on to the water heater so you can get the hot water back into the house. Turn the power back on or relight the heater pilot, if it is powered by gas. Let your household members know that it will take about an hour for the hot water to be completely restored.
9. Check the Drain Valve
As the last step, make sure that the drain valve is completely closed to avoid any leaks coming out of the spot.
And voila, you have a clean water heater! If you or your grandma are still in doubt about this process, contact Erica's Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Restoration to get the assistance of a professional. With the help of our expert plumbers, your water heater will once again produce clean water for the whole home. Call us today at (561) 782-2779.
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