How to Flush Your Water Heater (And Why It’s One of the Most Important Home Maintenance Tasks)

Your water heater quietly works behind the scenes every single day; providing hot showers, clean dishes, laundry, and more. But like any appliance, it needs occasional maintenance to keep running efficiently. One of the most overlooked (but crucial) tasks is flushing your water heater.

If you’ve never flushed yours or didn’t even know you were supposed to, you’re not alone. Most homeowners don’t realize how big of a difference this simple maintenance step can make!

Why Flushing Your Water Heater Matters

Over time, minerals and sediment from your water supply settle at the bottom of the tank. This buildup can cause:

✅ Reduced efficiency – Your water heater has to work harder to heat the water, increasing your energy bill

🔥 Overheating & damage – Sediment acts like insulation, causing the tank to overheat and wear out faster

🚿 Less hot water – You’ll notice shorter showers or inconsistent hot water

🔊 Noises from the tank – Rumbling, popping, or banging sounds are a sign of sediment buildup

💸 Expensive repairs or premature replacement – A neglected water heater often fails years earlier

A quick flush once or twice a year can extend the life of your water heater and save you hundreds of dollars.

How to Flush Your Water Heater: Step-by-Step Guide

⚠️ Safety note: If you’re not comfortable doing this, it’s always best to call a professional.

What You’ll Need

• A garden hose

• A bucket (optional)

• Screwdriver (optional depending on your unit)

  
  

1. Turn Off the Power Source

For gas heaters: Turn the thermostat to the “Pilot” setting.

For electric heaters: Turn off the breaker at the electrical panel to avoid damage to the heating elements.

2. Turn Off the Cold Water Supply Valve

This stops new water from entering the tank during the flush.

3. Connect a Garden Hose to the Drain Valve

Attach the hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Run the other end outside or into a floor drain.

4. Open the Drain Valve

Water (and sediment) will start flowing out. Be prepared—this water may be hot!

5. Turn the Cold Water Back On (Briefly)

With the drain still open, turn the cold water on for 10–20 seconds to stir up and flush out remaining sediment. Repeat until water runs clear.

6. Close the Valve & Refill the Tank

Shut the drain valve, remove the hose, and turn the cold water supply back on completely. Once the tank is full, turn the power or gas back on.

How Often Should You Flush It?

• Once a year for most homes

• Every 6 months if you have hard water

• Consider installing a water softener or yearly professional tune-up if sediment builds up quickly

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Signs It’s Time for a Professional Flush or Inspection

If you notice any of the following, your water heater may need service:

❗ Water has a metallic smell or rust color❗ Takes longer than usual to heat❗ Loud pops, bangs, or rumbling noises❗ Reduced hot water supply❗ Water leaking around the unit

Final Thoughts

Flushing your water heater is a simple, affordable maintenance task that can increase efficiency, lower energy bills, and extend its lifespan. If it’s been over a year or you’ve never done it, now’s the perfect time to check it off the list.

If you’d rather leave it to a pro, we can help. A proper professional flush includes a full safety inspection, sediment removal, and performance test to make sure your water heater is operating at peak efficiency.