Tank water heaters are a reliable way to secure a fast supply of hot water for your home. The presence of a storage tank ensures some hot water is always available. But over time, foreign substances may build up in the storage tank. This might be sediment or mineral buildup originating from the main water line or a crack in the pipes. Whatever the culprit is, this buildup could negatively impact the efficiency of water heaters. In severe cases it can clog up drainage and might even result in premature failure.
Fortunately, draining your water heater and clearing out sediment buildup is a relatively straightforward task. A certified plumber in Columbus can handle the process, but you can also drain the tank yourself if you know what you’re doing. Either way, draining the tank now can help minimize the risk you’ll need premature water heater replacement.
Before You Begin…
Before you start draining the tank, you’ll want to shut off the cold water supply. The supply valve connects your water heater with the main water line. Unless you have access to a well (and you might need to drain the tank more frequently if you do), the water main supplies all the potable water your home uses. Keeping the valve sealed will stop more water from reaching the tank, allowing you to completely drain it.
You’ll also want to grab a rubber hose, like one you would use for yard work. The hose allows you to safely drain the water heater tank without spilling water all over your garage, utility closet, attic or wherever the water heater is stored. Make sure you leave the other end of the hose far away from your home to prevent the water from flowing back inside.
Finally, a screwdriver will help you loosen stubborn screws or valves. You shouldn’t need any more tools than this unless you stumble upon a problem with the water heater or adjacent piping. At that point, it may be best to hire a certified plumber in Columbus.
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Heater
After you’ve shut off the water supply, you can shut off the water heater itself. This will be on the thermostat for natural gas water heaters or via a breaker switch for electric models. The pilot setting on gas water heaters can remain on during flushing, but electric models must be completely off. This is because of the heating elements electric water heaters use, which remain submerged. In an empty tank, they could quickly overheat. You should also find the model’s manual, as some water heaters must be completely full before the heating elements are turned on.
Even after you’ve shut off the water heater, you’ll need to wait for the water stored in the tank to cool down. It can be hours before the water cools to a safe temperature, so it is often best to leave the rest of the process for the following day.
Step 2: Attach the Hose to the Water Heater’s Drain Valve
Tank water heaters are designed with a drain valve you can use to empty the storage tank. Once you’re sure the water supply is disconnected and the water heater itself is off, locate the drain valve. Some models may have it covered up. Make sure the hose is securely fastened to prevent spilling hot water near you and the water heater.
Step 3: Open a Faucet or Other Hot Water Tap
Your home’s plumbing uses pressure within the piping to deliver a consistent flow of water from the main water line to the rest of the house. This pressure needs to be relieved before the hot water can actually flow from the tank. By heading to the closest faucet or spigot, you’ll release the pressure inside the piping. All you have to do is open the hot water tap to relieve the pressure before heading back to the water heater.
Step 4: Release the Drain Valve
Keep in mind that this water could still have some residual heat. Open the drain valve and allow all the water to drain from the tank. This should pull sediment buildup out of the tank and away from your home. But some buildup might be stuck to the inside of the tank. Turning the cold water supply back on will help flush stubborn minerals and other substances from the tank.
Keep repeating this step until the water looks free of sediment or minerals. If the drain isn’t working because of an obstruction, a trained plumber may be required.
Step 5: Re-Shut the Valve Before Refilling the Water Heater
If everything proceeds normally, you should be able to remove most excess sediment stuck inside your water heater. Retighten the drain valve, disconnect the hose and open the water supply to get things working again. As the water heater tank starts to fill, return to the hot water tap you opened. Once cold water starts to flow, you know the pressure is back where it needs to be.
At this point, you can open the gas valve or flip the breaker switch back on. Like we mentioned before, don’t forget that certain models may need to be completely full before the water can be safely heated. Make sure you check your manufacturer’s instructions before starting the process.
Keep Your Water Heater Sediment-Free for Best Results
Tank water heaters continue to be a great option for supplying your hot water needs. Draining the tank every 1-2 years will help clear out sediment buildup and keep things running at maximum efficiency. If you think your water heater is past the point of efficient heating, consider looking for
water heater replacement in Columbus from a technician you trust.