Draining and cleaning your water heater is an important maintenance task that can help extend the life of your appliance and ensure that it operates efficiently.
Here are the steps to follow:
Turn off the power or gas supply to the water heater.
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater tank. Make sure the other end of the hose is in a safe location where the hot water can drain out.
Open the drain valve and let the water drain out completely. Be careful as the water will be hot.
After the tank is empty, close the drain valve and turn on the cold water supply to the tank. This will help flush out any remaining sediment or debris.
Once the water runs clear from the drain valve, turn off the cold water supply and remove the hose.
Turn the power or gas supply back on to the water heater.
Optional step: If there is a lot of sediment buildup in the tank, you can clean it by filling the tank partially with water, adding a cleaning solution such as vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, and letting it sit for a few hours before draining and flushing the tank again.
It is recommended to drain and clean your water heater at least once a year, or more often if you notice that the hot water is not as hot as it used to be or if there are unusual noises coming from the appliance. Regular maintenance can help prevent problems and ensure that your water heater operates efficiently.
