How to clean and flush your hot water heater

Cleaning your water heater is a crucial part of maintaining its efficiency and prolonging its lifespan. Over time, sediment and mineral deposits can accumulate inside the tank, causing issues like reduced hot water supply, strange noises, and even damage to the internal components. This guide will walk you through how to clean and flush your hot water heater explaining why it’s necessary and outlining the steps you need to take for a thorough cleaning.

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Important: The troubleshooting information provided in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Why flushing and cleaning your water heater is essential

Before we dive into the process, let’s first explore why cleaning your water heater is important. Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium from hard water settle at the bottom of the tank. This sediment buildup can:

• Reduce energy efficiency by insulating the water from the heating elements
• Cause strange noises as the water heater struggles to heat the water through the sediment
• Shorten the lifespan of the heater by putting unnecessary strain on its components

Regular cleaning helps you avoid these common problems and ensures that your appliance works as intended. Additionally, learning how to clean a gas water heater prevents issues specific to gas-powered models, such as clogging of gas lines and burners.

Common signs that your water heater needs cleaning

It can be easy to overlook the need for maintenance, but there are several telltale signs that it’s time to clean your water heater:

1. Strange noises: Popping or rumbling sounds often indicate that sediment buildup is preventing water from heating efficiently.
2. Inconsistent water temperature: If your water isn’t as hot as it used to be or fluctuates unpredictably, sediment may be blocking the heating elements.
3. Higher energy bills: As the heater works harder to provide hot water, it uses more energy, which can show up in higher utility costs.
4. Rusty water: Sediment or rust can make your water look discolored, especially if the tank hasn’t been cleaned in a long time.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to clean your water heater. You can also check out our article on common water heater issues for more detailed troubleshooting.

How do you clean a hot water heater?

Cleaning your water heater is a simple process that can greatly improve its performance. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step 1: Turn off the water heater

For gas water heaters, switch the gas valve to the “pilot” setting to prevent it from turning on during the cleaning process. If you have an electric model, flip the circuit breaker that powers the unit.

Step 2: Turn off the cold water supply

Locate the cold water supply valve, typically at the top of the heater, and turn it off to stop new water from entering the tank.

Step 3: Drain the tank

To empty a water heater, attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and run the hose to a suitable drainage area. Open the drain valve and allow the water to flow out. If the valve is clogged with sediment, you may need to carefully poke at the opening with a long wire or a screwdriver to help the flow.

Step 4: Flush the tank

Once the tank is empty, open the cold water valve again briefly to flush out any remaining sediment. This step helps dislodge stubborn deposits and ensures a thorough cleaning.

Step 5: Close the drain valve and refill the tank

After flushing the tank, close the drain valve, remove the hose, and turn the cold water supply back on. Let the tank fill up completely before turning the water heater back on.

Step 6: Turn the water heater back on

For gas models, set the gas valve back to its normal setting. For electric models, flip the circuit breaker back on. Allow the heater time to warm the water before checking the temperature.

For more detailed guidance on water heater maintenance, check out our article on how to clean a gas water heater.

How to maintain your water heater for optimal performance

Once you know how to clean your water heater, it’s important to maintain it properly to avoid future problems. Regular maintenance should include:

• Flush the tank: Repeat the cleaning process every 6 to 12 months to prevent excessive sediment buildup.
• Inspect parts of a gas water heater: Regularly check components like the burner, gas valve, and pilot light for proper operation.
• Checking the anode rod: This metal rod helps prevent rust by attracting corrosive elements in the water. If it’s worn down, replace it to extend the life of your water heater.
• Adjusting the temperature: To avoid overheating or underheating, refer to your manual on how to change hot water heater temperature. This also ensures you’re getting the most efficiency out of your heater without risking scalding.

What happens if you don’t clean your water heater?

Neglecting regular cleaning can lead to more serious problems, such as:

• Reduced energy efficiency: As the heater struggles to heat water through sediment, it consumes more energy.
• Premature failure: The buildup of sediment can damage internal components, leading to costly repairs or the need to replace the heater entirely.
• Rust and leaks: Over time, sediment can cause rust to form inside the tank, leading to corrosion and leaks.

Avoid these issues by scheduling routine maintenance and following our guide on how to empty a water heater.

Wrapping up

Thanks for reading! If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, you can find more resources including our DIY blog at AppliancePartsPros.com. There, you can enter your model number to order the exact parts you need. Most orders arrive in two business days.

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