Draining your hot water heater is a crucial maintenance task that ensures its efficiency and longevity. Over time, sediment and mineral buildup can accumulate in the tank, hindering its heating performance. Draining the heater allows you to flush out these impurities and prevent premature wear and tear. Whether you’re experiencing cold showers, unusual noises, or reduced hot water capacity, draining your hot water heater can potentially resolve these issues and restore its optimal functioning.
Before embarking on this task, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools and safety gear. You’ll need a garden hose, bucket, adjustable wrench, and gloves. Remember to turn off the power supply to your water heater and allow it to cool for a few hours to avoid scalding. Locate the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and attach the garden hose securely. Ensure the hose leads to a drain or a designated area where the water can be safely discharged.
Once the setup is complete, slowly open the drain valve using the adjustable wrench. The water will begin to flow out of the tank and into the hose. Keep the valve open until all the water has drained from the heater. Depending on the size of the tank, this process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours. Monitor the water flow periodically to ensure there are no blockages. Once the tank is empty, close the drain valve tightly and turn the water supply back on. Allow the tank to refill and check for any leaks around the drain valve or connections.
Identifying the Drain Valve
Identifying the drain valve on your hot water heater is crucial before beginning the draining process. Here’s a detailed guide to help you locate it:
1. Locate the Water Heater: Find your water heater, typically stored in a utility room, basement, or garage. It’s usually a large, cylindrical tank with a capacity ranging from 40 to 80 gallons.
2. Inspect the Tank: Examine the exterior of the water heater for a small valve located near the bottom of the tank. This valve is usually made of brass, plastic, or metal and has a handle or lever for operation.
3. Check for a Drain Spigot: If you don’t see a visible valve, look for a drain spigot or petcock, which is a small, protruding faucet-like fixture. This spigot is typically found on the bottom of the tank and may have a cap or plug covering it.
4. Confirm the Drain Valve: To ensure you’ve identified the correct valve, turn the handle or lever slightly. If water starts draining from the valve, it confirms that it’s the drain valve. If no water flows, try turning the valve in the opposite direction.
5. Table: Drain Valve Location Based on Water Heater Type
| Water Heater Type | Drain Valve Location |
|---|---|
| Gas Water Heater | Bottom of the tank, near the gas burner |
| Electric Water Heater | Bottom of the tank, accessible from the front or side |
| Tankless Water Heater | Near the base of the unit, close to the water connections |
Gathering Necessary Tools
Before embarking on the task of draining your hot water heater, it is crucial to gather all the essential tools. Here is a comprehensive list of what you will need:
Safety Equipment
- Safety goggles to protect your eyes from splashes.
- Rubber gloves to guard your hands from heat and sharp edges.
- Respirator mask if working in a poorly ventilated area with potential for fumes.
Drainage Equipment
- Garden hose with a diameter of at least 3/4 inch to facilitate smooth water flow.
- Plastic bucket or drain pan with a capacity of at least 5 gallons to collect the drained water.
- Adjustable wrench to open and close drain valves.
- Screwdriver to remove the drain plug, if applicable.
Additional Tools
- Flashlight for illuminating work areas under the water heater.
- Shop towels or rags to absorb any spills or drips.
- Drain cleaner (optional) to remove sediment and buildup from the drain valves.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Safety goggles | Protect eyes from splashes |
| Rubber gloves | Guard hands from heat and sharp edges |
| Garden hose | Facilitate smooth water flow |
| Adjustable wrench | Open and close drain valves |
| Screwdriver | Remove drain plug (if applicable) |
| Drain cleaner | Remove sediment and buildup (optional) |
Shutting Off Water and Power
Before draining your water heater, it’s crucial to shut off the water supply and disconnect the power. To turn off the water, locate the cold water inlet valve at the top of the water heater and turn it clockwise using a wrench or pliers. Next, disconnect the power by turning off the circuit breaker or removing the fuse associated with the water heater.
Draining the Water Heater
To drain the water heater, follow these steps:
- Attach a hose to the drain valve: Connect one end of a garden hose to the drain valve located at the bottom of the water heater. Ensure that the other end of the hose is directed to a drain or bucket.
- Open the drain valve: Slowly open the drain valve by turning it counterclockwise using a screwdriver or pliers. Water will start flowing out of the hose.
- Monitor the water flow: Keep an eye on the water flow. If the flow slows or stops, it may indicate that sediment has accumulated in the water heater. In this case, follow these additional steps:
- Close the drain valve: Turn the drain valve clockwise to stop the water flow.
- Connect a flushing hose: Attach a flushing hose (available at hardware stores) to the cold water inlet valve at the top of the water heater.
- Flush the sediment: Slowly open the drain valve and simultaneously turn on the cold water supply. Water will flow through the water heater, flushing out sediment.
- Repeat flushing: Repeat the flushing process until the water flowing out of the drain valve runs clear.
- Flush the flushing hose: After cleaning the sediment, disconnect the flushing hose and run water through it for a few minutes to remove any remaining sediment.
- Close the drain valve: Once the water heater has been drained, close the drain valve tightly.
| Water Heater Type | Drain Valve Location |
|---|---|
| Electric | Bottom or side of the tank |
| Gas | Bottom of the tank |
| Tankless | Not applicable |
Attaching a Hose to the Drain Valve
Once you have located the drain valve, you will need to attach a hose to it. Here’s how to do it:
1. Gather Your Materials
You will need a garden hose, a hose bib, and a wrench or pliers.
2. Connect the Hose to the Hose Bib
Screw the hose onto the hose bib. Make sure that the connection is tight.
3. Place the Other End of the Hose in a Drain
Place the other end of the hose in a drain or bucket. Make sure that the end of the hose is below the level of the water heater.
4. Open the Drain Valve Slowly
Using the wrench or pliers, slowly open the drain valve. Be careful not to open it too quickly, as this could cause water to spray out. Allow the water to drain out of the water heater until it is empty.
| Tip: |
|---|
| To make it easier to open the drain valve, you can use a pair of pliers or a wrench. |
Once the water heater is empty, close the drain valve. You can now disconnect the hose from the drain valve and the hose bib.
Draining the Water Tank Gradually
If you have time to spare, draining the water tank gradually is a more controlled and less messy method. Follow these steps:
1. Shut Off the Water Supply
Locate the cold water supply valve on top of the water heater and turn it off completely.
2. Attach a Hose to the Drain Valve
Connect one end of a long hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater. Feed the other end into a bucket or drainage area located sufficiently low to prevent backflow.
3. Partially Open the Drain Valve
Using a wrench, carefully open the drain valve slightly, allowing water to slowly flow out into the hose.
4. Monitor the Water Level
Keep an eye on the water level in the water heater through the inspection port or relief valve. As the water drains, you’ll see the level dropping.
5. Flush the Sediment
Once most of the water has drained, open the drain valve fully to flush out any remaining sediment or debris. Continue flushing until the water runs clear.
6. Partially Close the Drain Valve
When the water has completely drained, partially close the drain valve to allow a small amount of water to drip out. This will prevent air from being sucked into the water heater and causing a vacuum when you refill it. Leave the valve slightly open until you’re ready to turn the water supply back on.
Flushing Out the Tank
To thoroughly cleanse the tank of sediment, follow these steps:
1. Safety Precautions
Ensure the water heater is turned off at the circuit breaker or gas valve. Wear protective gloves and safety glasses.
2. Open Drain Valve
Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Open the valve and allow the water to drain into a bucket or drain.
3. Flush Sediment
Turn on the cold water supply to the tank. The incoming water will help flush out the sediment. Let the water run until it becomes clear.
4. Repeat Flushing
Repeat steps 2 and 3 several times until the water coming out of the drain is clear and free of sediment.
5. Close Drain Valve
Once the water is clear, close the drain valve tightly using a wrench or pliers.
6. Refill Tank
Turn on the cold water supply to refill the tank. Open a faucet to bleed air from the system.
7. Extended Flushing for Heavy Sediment
If the water heater experiences chronic sediment buildup, consider an extended flush. Disconnect the cold water supply and drain the tank as usual. Then, fill the tank with a mixture of vinegar and water (50/50 ratio) and let it soak for 6-8 hours. Drain the tank and refill with clean water several times to remove any remaining vinegar residue. This process will help dissolve stubborn sediment accumulations and improve the heater’s efficiency.
Checking for Leaks
To ensure your hot water heater is free of leaks, follow these steps:
- Check the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve: Locate the valve on the side or top of the heater. Feel for any drips or moisture around the valve. If you notice any leaks, the valve may need to be replaced.
- Inspect the Drain Valve: Open the drain valve at the bottom of the heater and turn the water back on. If water does not flow out immediately, the valve may be clogged. Completely open the valve to allow water to flow through.
- Examine the Connections: Check all the pipes and fittings connected to the heater, including the inlet and outlet pipes, as well as the cold water supply and hot water outlet valves. Look for signs of leaks or corrosion at the joints.
- Visual Inspection: Turn off the power to the heater and disconnect the water supply. Allow the heater to cool down, then carefully examine the tank for any cracks, bulges, or other signs of damage that could indicate a leak.
- Pressure Test: Connect a pressure gauge to a cold water supply line or the drain valve. Turn on the water supply and slowly increase the pressure. Monitor the gauge for any sudden drops in pressure, which could indicate a leak.
Troubleshooting Leaks
If you detect a leak, it’s important to determine its source and take appropriate action:
| Leak Source | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve | Pressure buildup in the tank | Replace the valve |
| Drain Valve | Clogged valve | Clean or replace the valve |
| Connections | Loose fittings, corrosion | Tighten connections, replace damaged parts |
| Tank | Cracks, damage | Replace the hot water heater |
Resetting the Temperature
If you’ve drained and refilled your water heater, you may need to reset the temperature. Here’s how:
- Turn off the power to the water heater at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
- Open a hot water tap to release any pressure in the tank.
- Locate the thermostat on the side of the water heater.
- Remove the cover on the thermostat.
- Turn the dial on the thermostat to the desired temperature setting.
- Replace the cover on the thermostat.
- Turn on the power to the water heater at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
- Wait 15-20 minutes for the water heater to heat up.
- Check the temperature of the water coming out of a hot water tap to make sure it’s the desired temperature.
- If the water is not the desired temperature, adjust the thermostat setting accordingly and wait another 15-20 minutes for the water heater to heat up again. Repeat this step until the water is the desired temperature.
Tip:
If you have a digital thermostat, you can simply enter the desired temperature on the keypad and the thermostat will automatically adjust the temperature setting.
| Temperature Setting | Recommended for Most Applications |
| 120°F (49°C) | To reduce the risk of scalding, especially for children and the elderly. |
| 130°F (54°C) | To balance energy efficiency with reduced risk of scalding. |
| 140°F (60°C) | For higher temperature applications, such as dishwashing or laundry. |
How to Drain My Hot Water Heater
Before you begin, gather your tools and materials. You will need:
Once you have your tools and materials, follow these steps to drain your hot water heater:
- Turn off the water supply to the water heater.
- Open a hot water tap to release pressure from the tank.
- Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater.
- Place the other end of the hose in a bucket or drain.
- Open the drain valve and allow the water to drain.
- Close the drain valve once the water has stopped draining.
- Turn on the water supply to the water heater.
- Open a hot water tap to check for leaks.
People also ask
How often should I drain my hot water heater?
It is recommended to drain your hot water heater once a year to remove sediment and prevent corrosion.
What are the signs that my hot water heater needs to be drained?
Signs that your hot water heater needs to be drained include:
Can I drain my hot water heater myself?
Yes, you can drain your hot water heater yourself by following the steps outlined above. However, if you are not comfortable doing so, you can call a plumber to drain it for you.
