Flush sediment from your water heater

Tired of cold showers? The sediment in your water heater might be lowering your water temperature and the amount of available water.

Time

15 minutes

Difficulty

Easy

Expertise

None

Frequency

Once a year

Where

All US

Overview

Over time, the minerals in hard water collect in your water heater. Over time, it reduces the amount of hot water available, lowers your water temperature and, in some cases, reduces your water pressure.

Do this simple job carefully; wear gloves to avoid burns.

A drain valve is on the side of your water heater, near the bottom. It looks like a typical outdoor faucet, with a handle and a threaded spout.

Steps

1. (Optional) Shut off the heating supply.
   • With an electric water heater, shut off the circuit breakers or pull the fuses.
   • With a gas water heater, turn the gas valve to the pilot position.
   • With an oil-fired water heater, turn off the power to the burner.
2. Attach a hose to the drain valve and direct it to a floor drain.
3. Open the drain valve until the water runs clear.
4. Once the water runs clear, turn off the drain valve.
5. Wearing gloves, detach the hose from the drain valve. Lift up the end of the hose so any hot water left in it runs towards the drain.