One of the most important maintenance tasks for your home’s electric water heater is draining and flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup. Beyond just electric water heaters, draining and flushing is essential for gas powered water heater and heat pump water heaters. This simple yet effective process can prevent scaling, improve energy efficiency, and extend the life of your water heater.
In the video above, This Old House plumbing and heating contractor, Richard Trethewey, demonstrates the proper technique for draining and flushing an electric water heater.
Why Drain Your Electric Water Heater?
Draining and flushing your electric water heater is an essential maintenance task. This process helps prevent the accumulation of sediment and scaling inside the tank, which can lead to several issues:
- Increased energy costs
- Potential water heater failure
- Reduced efficiency
- Shortened lifespan of the unit
Signs of Sediment Buildup in Your Water Heater
Recognizing the signs of sediment buildup in your water heater can help you determine when to flush the system. Here are some indicators to watch for:
- Inconsistent water temperature
- Increased energy bills despite no change in usage
- Longer heating times for water
- Premature depletion of hot water
- Rusty or foul-smelling hot water
- Unusual noises coming from the water heater
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to consider draining and flushing your electric water heater.
Preparing To Drain Your Electric Water Heater
Before you begin the draining process, you’ll need to take some safety precautions and gather the right tools. Here’s what you need to do:
- Turn off the electricity to the water heater at the circuit breaker.
- Allow the water in the tank to cool for a couple of hours.
- Shut off the cold water supply to the water heater.
The main tools you’ll need include:
- Bucket
- Garden hose
- Pump (if you don’t have a floor drain)
- Screwdriver or wrench (to open the drain valve)
Step-by-Step Guide to Draining and Flushing Your Electric Water Heater
Follow these steps to drain and flush your electric water heater properly:
- Locate the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
- Attach a garden hose to the drain valve and direct it to a suitable drainage area or bucket.
- Open one or two hot water faucets in your home to prevent a vacuum from forming in the pipes.
- Open the drain valve and allow the water to flow out.
- Inspect the draining water for sediment. If it’s cloudy or contains visible particles, you’ll need to flush the tank.
- To flush the tank, turn the cold water supply on and off several times to stir up any remaining sediment.
- Continue draining and flushing until the water runs clear.
- Close the drain valve and remove the hose.
- Turn on the cold water supply to refill the tank.
- Once the tank is full, turn the electricity on at the circuit breaker.
Flushing Techniques for Stubborn Sediment
If you encounter stubborn sediment that won’t drain easily, try these techniques:
- Use the “on-off” method: Turn the cold water supply on and off repeatedly to create a pressure change that can dislodge sediment.
- Try a vinegar flush: For particularly stubborn buildup, you can try flushing the tank with a vinegar solution. However, we recommend trying this option infrequently, as excessive attempts can damage the tank lining.
- Consider professional help: If you can’t clear the sediment or the water never runs clear, it may be time to call a professional plumber.
Refilling and Restarting Your Electric Water Heater
After you’ve successfully drained and flushed your water heater, it’s time to refill and restart the unit:
- Ensure the drain valve is tightly closed.
- Open the cold water supply valve to begin refilling the tank.
- Leave the hot water faucets open until water flows steadily, then close them.
- Check for any leaks around the drain valve or other connections.
- Once the tank is full, turn the electricity back on at the circuit breaker.
You may initially experience some air in the lines, but the entrapped air will pass through the faucets. This occurrence is normal and will resolve itself within a few seconds.
Maintaining Your Electric Water Heater
Regular electric water heater maintenance can significantly extend its lifespan and improve its efficiency. Here are some additional maintenance tips:
- Check the anode rod every few years and replace the anode rod if necessary
- Consider installing a water softener if you have hard water
- Insulate the hot water pipes to reduce heat loss
- Keep the area around your water heater clear and clean
- Test the pressure relief valve annually
When To Seek Professional Help for Your Water Heater
While most homeowners can handle draining and flushing a water heater, there are situations where professional help may be necessary:
- If the water doesn’t drain or the heater’s performance doesn’t improve after flushing
- If you notice any leaks or unusual noises coming from the tank
- If your water heater is more than 10–15 years old and showing signs of wear
- If you’re uncomfortable performing the maintenance yourself
A professional plumber can identify and address potential problems that may not be apparent to the average homeowner.
Common Water Heater Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common mistakes when maintaining your electric water heater:
- Ignoring sediment buildup: Failing to drain and flush the tank can lead to premature failure.
- Neglecting the anode rod: This component helps prevent tank corrosion and requires routine checks.
- Not checking for leaks: Regularly inspect the area around the water heater for signs of leaks, which can cause damage to your home.
- Setting the thermostat too high: High temperatures can cause scaling and increased energy use.
Our Conclusion
Draining and flushing your electric water heater is a simple yet effective way to maintain its efficiency and extend its lifespan. By performing this task annually and staying alert to signs of sediment buildup, you can ensure your water heater continues to provide reliable hot water for years to come.
As always, if you’re unsure about any aspect of the process, we recommend consulting a professional.