How To Drain a Water Heater?

As much as water heaters are not designed to last, it is essential to keep up maintaining them regularly. One way to extend its lifespan is by draining the water heater when due. If not, the appliance might malfunction, resulting in a flooded floor. However, frequent draining might improve its performance. But how can a water heater be drained?

Continue reading to find out about this article.

What are the benefits of draining your water heater?

Why do you need to drain your water heater?

• Over time, the silt that settles on the water heater’s base might eventually clog the device. This, in turn, can lead to the breakdown of the heating device.
• So far, draining a water heater is essential for regular maintenance that increases the water heater’s efficiency and performance.

Steps to drain a water heater

Draining a water heater securely and adequately requires following a specific guide. In addition, each water heater has special instructions, so it’s essential to read the manual before doing anything.

Step 1: Shut off the water supply

First, turn off the water supply to the water heater. You can locate the main shutdown valve in the basement, check the walls mounted outside, or a covered subterranean box.

Step 2: Turn off the water heater 

Usually, water heaters are either powered by gas or electricity. At this point, set the control to the “pilot” position if the furnace is powered by gas or switch off the breaker if it is electric. Next, flip the circuit breaker for the water heater to the “off” position. It is usually powered by electricity from its own dedicated circuit breaker box.

Note that the water temperature does not instantly decrease after turning off the water heater. However, if you can’t wait long, let the water cool in the heater first and then drain it carefully.

Step 3: Attach a hose to the drain outlet.

You may find the drain outlet in the lower part of the water heater tank. First, get a hose and connect it to the valve hole; any old water hose would do. Then, please direct the hose’s other end toward a ground drain or outdoors so the water can escape safely.

Step 4: Turn on the hot water tap.

Now, turn on a tap that is near the water heater. It’s preferable to install one on the upper floor. In addition to reducing pressure on the distribution network, this also facilitates rapid tank draining.

Step 5: Activate the Drain Outlets

Turn on the water heater’s drain outlets to let the water out. Keep in mind that the water temperature is likely to remain high. As soon as the tank is empty, switch on the cold water tap for a while. This will help drain out any leftover silt. Repeat the procedure until the water in the drain is completely clean.

Step 6: Deactivate the drain outlets and run the water heater.

Do not open the drain outlet again until the water has returned to a clear state. To refill the water heater, detach the hose from the drain outlet and open the cold water supply. Check the previously opened hot water faucet and turn it off whenever cold water starts to flow. Then, flip the pilot switch or the breaker back on to reactivate the power to the burner.

Need The Help Of A Qualified Plumbing Service Near You In Bellevue, WA? Green House Plumbing Expert Is Here To Assist

Most people can do the maintenance chore of draining their water heater without calling a professional water heater contractor. However, if you’d prefer not to do it yourself or aren’t confident in your abilities, you can always contact Green House Plumbing Expert or get an online quotation for your plumbing work.

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