If you’re experiencing a lack of hot water or an increase in your energy bills, it might be time to drain your hot water heater. Draining your water heater is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few hours. However, it’s important to follow the steps carefully to avoid any damage to your water heater or plumbing system. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of draining your hot water heater.
Before you begin, you will need to gather a few supplies. These include a bucket, a hose, a wrench, and a screwdriver. You may also want to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from hot water and debris. Once you have gathered your supplies, you can follow the steps below to drain your hot water heater.
First, turn off the power to your water heater. This can be done by flipping the circuit breaker or removing the fuse. Next, turn off the water supply to your water heater. This is typically done by closing the main water valve. Once the power and water supply have been turned off, you can begin draining the water heater. To do this, attach the hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater. Open the drain valve and allow the water to drain into the bucket. Once the water has stopped draining, you can close the drain valve and remove the hose.
Identifying the Drain Valve
The drain valve is typically located on the bottom of the water heater tank, often near the cold water inlet pipe. It is usually a small, plastic or metal valve with a handle or lever. The drain valve may be covered by a plastic cap or plug, so be sure to remove this before attempting to open the valve.
Here are some additional tips for identifying the drain valve:
- If you have a gas water heater, the drain valve will likely be located near the gas control valve.
- If you have an electric water heater, the drain valve may be located near the heating elements.
- If you are still having trouble finding the drain valve, consult your water heater’s user manual or contact the manufacturer.
Types of Drain Valves
There are two main types of drain valves:
Type Description Gate valve A gate valve has a solid gate that slides up and down to open and close the valve. Gate valves are typically more durable than ball valves, but they can be more difficult to operate. Ball valve A ball valve has a ball that rotates to open and close the valve. Ball valves are typically easier to operate than gate valves, but they may not be as durable. Draining the Water Heater
1. Safety First
Before you begin, turn off the water supply to the water heater and allow the water to cool for several hours to prevent scalding.
2. Gather Your Tools
You’ll need a bucket, hose, adjustable wrench, and possibly a wet/dry vacuum.
3. Locate the Drain Valve
It’s usually a small valve at the bottom of the water heater. If there is no drain valve, you’ll need to use the temperature and pressure relief valve.
4. Attach the Hose to the Drain Valve
If the drain valve doesn’t have a hose fitting, you can use an adapter. Make sure the hose is securely attached.
5. Place the End of the Hose in a Bucket
Choose a bucket that can hold the entire contents of the water heater. Place the end of the hose in the bucket and ensure it’s below the level of water in the heater.
6. Open the Drain Valve
Using the adjustable wrench, slowly open the drain valve. The water should start flowing out of the hose into the bucket. Be cautious of the sudden rush of water and adjust the valve accordingly to prevent overflowing.
Drain Valve Type Steps for Opening Conventional Drain Valve Turn the valve counterclockwise using the adjustable wrench. Push-Type Drain Valve Press and hold the button or lever to release the water. Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve Use the adjustable wrench to turn the valve handle until water begins to flow. **Caution:** Do not overtighten the valve. Reconnecting the Cold Water Supply
Once the hot water heater has been drained and cleaned, it is time to reconnect the cold water supply. This is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the steps carefully to avoid leaks.
1. Turn off the cold water supply to the hot water heater using the shut-off valve located near the top of the heater.
2. Open a hot water faucet in the sink or bathtub to release any remaining pressure in the line.
3. Unscrew the cold water supply line from the hot water heater using a wrench.
4. Wrap the threads of the new cold water supply line with Teflon tape to prevent leaks.
5. Screw the new cold water supply line onto the hot water heater.
6. Tighten the cold water supply line using a wrench.
7. Turn on the cold water supply to the hot water heater.Checking for leaks:
Once the cold water supply has been reconnected, it is important to check for leaks. To do this, open a hot water faucet in the sink or bathtub and look for any water leaking from the connections. If there are any leaks, tighten the connections until the leak stops.
Step Description 1 Turn off the cold water supply to the hot water heater. 2 Open a hot water faucet to release pressure. 3 Unscrew the old cold water supply line. 4 Wrap the threads of the new cold water supply line with Teflon tape. 5 Screw the new cold water supply line onto the hot water heater. 6 Tighten the cold water supply line using a wrench. 7 Turn on the cold water supply to the hot water heater and check for leaks. Step 1: Turn Off the Power and Gas
Locate the gas valve on the gas line leading to the water heater. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the gas supply. If your water heater is electric, turn off the circuit breaker or fuse that supplies power to the unit.
Step 2: Attach a Garden Hose
Connect one end of a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater. Make sure the hose is long enough to reach a drain or outdoor area where you can safely discharge the water.
Step 3: Open the Drain Valve
Slowly open the drain valve by turning the handle counterclockwise. The water will begin to drain out of the tank.
Step 4: Flush the Tank
Once the tank is drained, close the drain valve. Open a hot water faucet anywhere in the house to flush out any remaining water in the pipes. Close the faucet when the water runs clear.
Step 5: Reopen the Drain Valve
Reopen the drain valve and let the remaining water drain out. Wait until the tank is empty.
Step 6: Remove the Sacrificial Anode Rod (Optional)
If your water heater has a sacrificial anode rod (usually made of magnesium or aluminum), remove it by unscrewing it from the tank using a wrench. This rod helps protect the tank from corrosion, but it can become clogged with sediment over time. If you remove the anode rod, be sure to replace it with a new one.
Step 7: Reinstall the Drain Plug
Once the tank is empty, close the drain valve and reinstall the drain plug tightly.
Relighting the Gas or Turning on the Electricity
If your water heater is gas-powered, follow these steps to relight the pilot light:
1. Turn the gas valve to the “Off” position.
2. Wait 5 minutes for the gas to dissipate.
3. Push the gas control knob in and hold it down while you light the pilot light with a match or lighter.
4. Once the pilot light is lit, release the gas control knob and turn it to the “On” position.If your water heater is electric, simply turn on the circuit breaker or fuse that supplies power to the unit.
Flushing the Water Heater
Flushing your water heater is an important maintenance task that can help prevent sediment buildup and premature failure. Here are the steps on how to flush your water heater:
1. Gather your materials. You will need a garden hose, a bucket, and a wrench.
2. Turn off the water supply to the water heater. This is usually done by closing the valve on the cold water pipe that enters the water heater.
3. Open a hot water faucet. This will relieve pressure in the water heater.
4. Attach the garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater. The drain valve is usually a small plastic or metal valve.
5. Place the other end of the hose in a bucket.
6. Open the drain valve. The water will start to drain out of the water heater.
7. Flush the water heater for 15-20 minutes. This will help to remove sediment from the bottom of the tank.
8. Close the drain valve.
9. Turn on the cold water supply to the water heater. The water heater will start to fill up with fresh water.
10. Check for leaks. Once the water heater is full, check for any leaks around the drain valve or the water supply lines.
11. Open a hot water faucet. This will help to circulate the fresh water throughout the system.
12. Turn off the hot water faucet.
13. Your water heater is now flushed!
Checking for Leaks
Turn off the water supply to the water heater.
Locate the cold water inlet valve on the top of the water heater and turn it off. If there is also a hot water outlet valve, turn it off as well.
Open a hot water faucet.
This will relieve pressure in the water heater and allow the water to drain more easily.
Attach a hose to the drain valve.
The drain valve is usually located at the bottom of the water heater. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve and run the other end of the hose to a drain or bucket.
Open the drain valve.
Slowly open the drain valve and allow the water to drain. Be careful not to open the valve too quickly, as this could cause the water to spray out.
Check for leaks.
Once the water has drained, inspect the water heater, pipes, and connections for any leaks. Look for any water dripping or seeping from the water heater, valves, or pipes.
Signs of a Leak
Visual Inspection Other Signs Water droplets or stains on the water heater or surrounding area Increased water bill Pooling water around the water heater Dampness or mold on the wall or floor near the water heater Sagging ceiling due to water damage Corrosion on the water heater or pipes Rumbling or hissing noises from the water heater Unusual water pressure changes How to Drain My Hot Water Heater
Draining your hot water heater is a necessary maintenance task that removes sediment and minerals that can build up over time. This sediment can reduce the efficiency of your water heater and lead to premature failure. Draining your water heater regularly will help to extend its lifespan and keep it operating efficiently.
To drain your hot water heater, you will need a bucket, a hose, a screwdriver, and a wrench. First, turn off the power to the water heater and the water supply to the house. Next, open a hot water faucet in the house to relieve pressure. Then, attach the hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater and place the other end of the hose in the bucket. Open the drain valve and allow the water to drain out. Once the water has stopped draining, close the drain valve and turn the power and water supply back on.
People Also Ask
How often should I drain my hot water heater?
It is recommended to drain your hot water heater once a year, or more often if you have hard water.
What are the benefits of draining my hot water heater?
Draining your hot water heater removes sediment and minerals that can build up over time. This can improve the efficiency of your water heater and extend its lifespan.
Can I drain my hot water heater myself?
Yes, you can drain your hot water heater yourself. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully and to be sure to turn off the power and water supply before starting.
