When was the last time you flushed out your water heater? If you can’t remember or if it’s been over a year, it’s time to take care of it.
Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it might sound, and you don’t need to call a plumber near you to get it done.
In this guide, I’m going to show you exactly how to flush your electric water heater and keep it running smoothly.
My name is Jose Luis Quintero & I have been a homeowner & a plumber at Elite Rooter company for over 5 years, and in that time, I’ve learned a lot about home maintenance, repairs, and renovations. One of the most important things I’ve learned is the value of regular upkeep, like flushing your water heater. A lot of plumbers I’ve talked to recommend doing this at least once a year to keep the tank in good condition and prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
So, follow along with me as I walk you through a simple, DIY process to get your water heater cleaned and working efficiently again!
Do you really need to flush your electric water heater?
Flushing your electric water heater is an essential maintenance task that helps keep your unit running efficiently. Over time, minerals from hard water settle at the bottom of the tank, causing sediment buildup. This can reduce heating efficiency, increase energy usage, and even damage the tank, leading to costly repairs.
Flushing the heater removes these deposits, preventing rust and corrosion, which in turn extends the life of your water heater. Additionally, removing sediment helps improve energy efficiency, lower utility bills, and ensures better water quality. A simple yearly flush can save you from expensive repairs and help your water heater work at its best for longer.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power Supply
- Locate the Circuit Breaker: First, switch off the power to your water heater by turning off the circuit breaker.
- Wait for the Tank to Cool: Allow the water inside to cool for 1-2 hours to prevent burns or injuries.
Step 2: Shut Off the Cold Water Supply
- Find the Cold Water Valve: This is usually located at the top of your water heater. Turn it to the “off” position to stop the water from entering the tank while you flush it.
Step 3: Attach the Garden Hose to the Drain Valve
- Connect the Hose: Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Make sure the other end of the hose is directed to a safe drainage area, such as a floor drain or outside.
- Optional Tip: Place a window screen under the hose to catch any sediment that may come out, so you can inspect it.
Step 4: Open the Drain Valve and Start Draining
- Open the Valve: Slowly open the drain valve and allow the water to begin flowing through the hose. If you’re using a bucket, you’ll need to stay close to empty it regularly.
- Speed Up the Process: You can also open a hot water faucet inside your home to help the tank drain faster. The water should begin to flow out, and it may look murky at first due to sediment.
Step 5: Flush Out Remaining Sediment
Once the tank is mostly empty and the water slows to a trickle:
- Turn On and Off the Water Supply Valve: Go back to the cold water supply valve and open it briefly, allowing fresh water to stir up any remaining sediment at the bottom of the tank. Close the valve, then repeat this process a few times to thoroughly flush out all sediment.
- Wait for the Water to Run Clear: Keep flushing until you see clean water flowing out of the hose.
Step 6: Close the Drain Valve and Remove the Hose
- Close the Drain Valve: Once the water runs clear, close the drain valve securely.
- Remove the Hose: Disconnect the garden hose and store it properly.
Step 7: Refill the Tank
- Turn the Cold Water Supply Back On: Open the cold water valve to begin refilling the tank.
- Let the Tank Fill Completely: Wait until the tank is full before moving to the next step.
Step 8: Restore Power and Check for Air Pockets
- Turn On the Circuit Breaker: Once the tank is full, turn the circuit breaker back on to restore power to the water heater.
- Release Air Pockets: Open a hot water faucet in your home to release any air pockets that may have formed in the system. This helps the heater work more efficiently.
Why This Matters
Flushing your water heater annually prevents sediment buildup, which can lead to rust, corrosion, and other costly issues. In my case, after neglecting this maintenance step, my old water heater rusted out and flooded my finished basement with 40 gallons of water. The plumber who replaced my unit stressed the importance of flushing the tank yearly—especially if you live in an area with hard water.
By following these steps, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your electric water heater running efficiently for many years.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance, like flushing your electric water heater, is essential to prevent sediment buildup, improve efficiency, and protect your investment. Now that you know exactly how to do it, make sure to set a reminder to flush your water heater annually. Doing so will save you money, time, and a whole lot of stress in the future!
If you have any questions or need more advice, feel free to leave a comment below. And don’t forget to subscribe for more easy-to-follow DIY home maintenance tips!
