How to Drain a Hot Water Heater

You should drain your water heater once a year. Doing so removes sentiment, which helps it operate more efficiently and last longer. It’s a simple process that won’t take much time out of your day.

Quick Flush

Connect a hose to the water heater’s drain valve and run it outside. Open the drain valve for a few moments and then close it. This step will help loosen any sediment stuck to the bottom of your water heater.

Turn Your Water Heater Off

If you have a gas water heater, shut the gas supply off. Turn off the power to an electric water heater. You need to next shut the water off using the valve on the cold-water pipe.

Open a Faucet

Open a hot water tap on a faucet that’s close to your water heater. This will reduce pressure, so the tank can drain faster.

Open the Drain Valve

Open the drain valve again on your water heater. Be careful as the water will be hot. Let all the water drain out. Once that happens, turn on the cold-water supply to stir up and remove any remaining sediment. Turn it off and on every few seconds until the water running out of the hose is clear.

Refill Your Water Heater

Close the drain valve and open the valve on the cold water pipe. Turn the electricity back on if you have an electric water heater. For a gas water heater, turn the gas back on and relight the pilot. Turn off the hot water tap when all the air is out of the pipes.

Check the Drain Valve

Remove the hose and make sure the water heater’s drain valve is fully closed and isn’t leaking. You should have hot water again in about an hour.

Advanced Comfort Solutions of Cheyenne, WY, can help you with your water heater. We also install, repair and tune-up heaters and air conditioners. Our other services include indoor air quality, duct cleaning, ductless mini-splits and whole-house fans. Call today to find out more.