If your water heater is clogged with sediment, you may be wondering how to drain a water heater. Failure to drain the sediment properly can lead to major problems, including extra wear and tear on the tank. The good news is that there are several easy ways to clear sediment from your water heater. Here are some simple steps to follow:
To drain the water heater, locate the drain valve on the bottom of the tank. It’s often located near the bottom of the tank, with a built-in knob, but sometimes you may need a flat-head screwdriver to access it. Once you’ve reached the valve, turn it counterclockwise until you hear the water drain. Be prepared to divert the water out of your house before you turn the valve back on. If you’re unable to get out all of the water in a single go, you can use multiple buckets.
In addition to preventing unnecessary damage, draining your water heater helps extend its life. When you use water from a hard water source, sediment can build up on the heating coils, causing the water heater to run inefficiently. Therefore, you should drain your water heater as often as possible, and check the manual to make sure you’re following the manufacturer’s instructions. A simple draining can be done by anyone with basic tools that you already have in your home.
