Learn Why Your Water Heater Needs Draining and How to Do It

A water heater is one of the most valuable appliances, especially if you live in a cold climate. Unfortunately, some homeowners take heater tanks for granted, so they fail to maintain them properly. 

Most people don’t know about this, but your water heater needs draining in order for it to function well. In this article, we will tell you how you can do that properly so you can prolong the lifespan of your water heater. 

Let’s get started!

Why Do You Need to Drain Your Water Heater?

In case you didn’t know, the bottom of your tank accumulates sediments over time. These sediments will make it harder for your water heater to function properly. Your tank needs to work harder so that it can provide you with heated water. Since that is the case, your utility bill will increase, damaging your budget. 

Additionally, those sediments can also damage your water heater through the years. The sediment buildup is the primary reason why you need to drain your water heater. If you drain your water heater, the sediment will be removed, prolonging the lifespan of your water heater. 

How Frequent Should You Drain Your Water Heater?

You must know that the frequency of draining your water heater will depend on many factors since every hot water tank is different. Some manufacturers may advise you to drain off a gallon of water once a month. Some recommend a full drain once a year. But, if you’re unsure what to follow, once to twice a year is ideal. 

What Are the Signs That You Already Need to Drain Your Water Heater?

To know if your water heater already needs draining, here are the signs you should look out for:

• No or Little Hot Water – If you notice that your water heater is not producing hot water, you may have a faulty burner or a buildup of sediment inside. If that’s the case, it’s time to drain it.
• Strange Smells – Strange smells are not normal. Once you notice that the water has an odor, drain your water heater immediately.
• Unusual Noises – Noise is also your indicator that your water heater needs draining because there may be loose sediment inside the tank.

How Can You Drain Your Water Heater?

For a safe and effective water heater draining, follow the steps below: 

1. Shut off the water supply.
2. Disconnect the heater from the main power line.
3. Then, let the water cool for a bit and just leave it for a few hours.
4. Once the water is cooled, attach a hose to the water heater drain valve.
5. Then, turn on the hot water tap near the water heater.
6. Open the drain valve to let the water flow out.
7. Turn the water to the tank bank on.
8. Shut off the hot water tap.
9. Finally, turn the water heater on again.

Conclusion

Generally, your water heater needs draining to eliminate any sediment buildup that can damage the unit. If you routinely drain your water heater, you can prolong its life, earning you hot showers for longer. Now that you know why your water heater needs draining, it’s best to do  preventative maintenance regularly.

If you need help with any water heater repair and replacement in Woodland Hills, don’t hesitate to call Candu Plumbing & Rooter. Our skilled plumbers can handle any water heater-related problems. Moreover, we can install, repair, or replace any parts of your water heater. We are available 24/7. Contact us now!