How To Drain And Flush Your Water Heater: A Step-by-Step Guide

Water heaters are essential for our daily comfort in Denver, providing hot water for bathing, cooking, and cleaning. To keep them running optimally and extend their lifespan, it’s essential to drain and flush them periodically. This process removes sediment buildup that can cause your heater to work harder than it should, reducing efficiency and potentially leading to premature failure. We recommend the following steps at Todd’s Water Heater Repair Denver.

1. Turn Off the Water Heater

You can start by shutting off the power for your electric water heater and if your water heater is gas you can turn the thermostat to the “pilot” setting.

2. Connect a Garden Hose

Secure one end of your garden hose to the drain valve located at the base of your water heater. Make certain the opposing end of the hose is directed towards an appropriate area for water disposal, like your driveway or yard.

3. Shut Off the Cold Water Supply

This valve is usually located on top of the water heater.

4. Open a Hot Water Faucet

Open a hot water faucet in your Denver home, like the one in your kitchen or bathroom. This will help air enter the tank and water flow out of it.

5. Open the Drain Valve

Slowly open the drain valve, allowing the water to flow through the garden hose. Be careful as the water will be hot.

6. Flush the Tank

After emptying the tank, turn on the cold water supply for a few minutes to flush out any remaining sediment. Then close the drain valve.

7. Refill the Tank

After securing the drain valve shut, reactivate the cold water supply to start refilling your tank. Leave a hot water faucet running until you observe a continuous flow of water, which indicates that the tank has been completely refilled.

8. Turn the Water Heater Back On

In the case of electric heaters, reactivate the corresponding circuit breaker. For those with gas heaters, it’s time to adjust the thermostat away from the ‘pilot’ setting.

Following these steps can save you from costly water heater repairs in Denver. However, it’s always best to call the professionals if you need more clarification. At Todd’s Water Heater Repair, we’re experts in water heater repair and installation in Denver. We’re here to ensure your water heater is in its best condition, providing consistent, reliable hot water. Contact us today for all your water heater needs!