Most people easily ignore water heaters until there’s a problem. It is important to take care of your water heater and give it the maintenance and care it needs. One way to ensure that the water heater is working in good condition is by draining it regularly. If you’re asking “can draining your water heater hurt it?” the opposite is actually true. Draining or flushing your water heater can help remove any debris or sediment that has accumulated in the tank, which can improve the efficiency of the heater and extend its lifespan.
Signs That your Water Heater Should Be Drained
Over time, sediment will accumulate at the bottom of your water heater if not cleared out. This could potentially clog the heater and eventually cause it to malfunction. Draining out the sediment in your water heater is necessary to ensure its smooth operation and prevent issues. Other signs that it’s time to flush your water heater include when you notice, rusty or orange-looking water, hot water is running out more quickly, leaks are coming from the water heater, and when your water heater is making more noise than normal.
Do I Need to Flush or Drain My Water Heater?
If not properly maintained, water heaters can get damaged even though they are designed to last for many years. This is because hard water contains minerals such as magnesium and calcium which may damage water heaters. These minerals can build up inside the tank preventing proper heating and leading to failure or premature wear and tear. By regularly draining the tank, you can extend the water heater’s lifespan and avoid costly repairs. In addition to that, proper maintenance can help your unit run more efficiently, thus saving you money in the long run. Other benefits of draining your water heater regularly include: improved heating speeds, reduces noise, lower energy bills, removes old or smelly water from your tank, and preserve your hot water heater
Steps for Draining Your Water Heater
Plumbing professionals recommend following these steps when you are draining your water heater. First, locate and turn off the water supply valve. The shutoff valve is usually found at the top of the water heater. Switch off the water heater power. If you have an electric water heater, then you can turn it off at the electric panel. For a gas heater, you can shut off the gas supply or turn off the thermostat. Allow the water to cool before proceeding. It is best to do this step overnight. Connect a hose to the drain valve and then place the other end of the hose outside or the floor drain. Open the hot water tap and then open the drain valve to allow the water to flow out of the tank. Turn on the water supply back to flush the tank with fresh water until it is clear. You may need to repeat this step. Finally, turn the water supply off again and then remove the hose. Ensure that you close the valve before refilling the tank.
It is recommended to drain and flush a water heater every six months to remove minerals and sediment that can build up in the tank over time. If you are unsure of how to drain your water heater and you need some help, it is always a good idea to contact a professional for assistance. A trained plumber in Manteca will be able to identify the type of water heater you have and provide you with the appropriate maintenance recommendations.
