Drain Water Heater – Easy Guide to Flushing & Maintaining Your Hot Water System

Got a water heater that’s taking forever to heat up or making weird noises? Chances are sediment has built up inside the tank. Draining the heater clears that gunk, helps the unit run smoother, and can save you a pricey repair later. Best part? You can do it yourself in under an hour with a few basic tools.

Why Drain Your Water Heater?

Every time you heat water, minerals from the supply settle at the bottom of the tank. Over time these particles form a hard layer that acts like insulation, forcing the burner to work harder. The result is higher energy bills, longer wait for hot water, and a shorter lifespan for the heater. A regular drain—ideally once a year—keeps the tank clean, improves efficiency, and extends the unit’s life.

Step‑by‑Step Draining Process

1. Turn off power or gas. For electric heaters, switch off the breaker at the consumer unit. For gas units, set the thermostat to “off” and shut the gas valve.

2. Shut the cold‑water supply. Locate the valve above the tank and turn it clockwise until it stops.

3. Connect a hose. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Run the other end to a floor drain, bathtub, or outdoors where hot water won’t cause damage.

4. Open the drain valve. Let the water flow out. If it trickles slowly, open the pressure‑relief valve on the top of the tank to let air in—this speeds up drainage.

5. Flush the tank. Once empty, briefly reopen the cold‑water supply with the hose still attached. Let water run for a minute to stir up any remaining particles, then close the supply again.

6. Close everything and refill. Tighten the drain valve, remove the hose, and turn the cold‑water supply back on. Let the tank fill completely; you’ll hear water flow into the tank and out of the pressure‑relief valve.

7. Restore power or gas. For electric units, flip the breaker back on. For gas, turn the thermostat to your desired temperature and relight the pilot if needed.

That’s it—your water heater is now clean and ready to give you hot water faster and cheaper. If you notice leaks, rust, or the heater still runs hot after flushing, it’s time to call a professional.

At Bridgewater Appliance Fixers we specialize in water‑heater service, so you never have to guess whether a problem needs a quick DIY fix or a trained tech. A simple drain can keep your system happy, but we’re just a phone call away if anything looks off.

Remember, safety first: always let the tank cool before touching any fittings, and never drain a heater that’s still under pressure. With a yearly flush, you’ll enjoy reliable hot water, lower bills, and peace of mind knowing your heater is in good shape.