5 Simple Steps to Flush a Hot Water Heater

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Flushing a water heater in Woodinville, WA

5 Simple Steps to Get It Done Quickly and Easily

To keep your home in tip-top condition and help it last many decades, it requires periodic maintenance. One of the easiest parts is maintaining a hot water heater by flushing it annually. There are 5 simple steps to get it done quickly and easily.

Disconnect the Tank From Utilities

If the unit is electric, shut off the breaker; if gas, use the shutoff valve or, if necessary, shut off the gas at the meter. If you turn it off at the meter, you may have to relight the pilot light on all your gas appliances. Also, turn off the cold water inlet valve to the tank.

Run a Hose From the Drain Valve to a Good Area

The drain valve is located at the bottom of the tank. Connect a garden hose to it and run the hose to an area that can handle many gallons of water. Make sure the drainage is away from the house and that it won’t wash out any features, such as a gravel path.

Drain the Water Heater

It’s best to wait a few hours to let the hot water cool down before draining. Next, open the drain valve on the tank, then the pressure relief valve on top of the unit. Then open one or two hot water faucets. This will allow the tank to empty quickly.

Close All the Valves and Double-Check the Ones on the Tank

Once the water heater flush is finished, close the pressure relief valve and the drain valve. Turn on the water and then immediately check the tank for leaky valves. Wait for the air to pass through the open faucets, then shut them off as well.

Turn on the Power or Gas

If you have gas, make sure any pilot lights are lit. Once again, look for drips around the unit; if you don’t find any, you’re done!
If your water heater has leaked and caused damage in Woodinville, WA, call an experienced water damage restoration company for advice. They can help you with insurance information and get things back to normal quickly.