How to Drain Your Water Heater and Why

Draining your Trinity water heater regularly removes sedimentation. This is especially important in FL where hard water can wreak havoc on your appliances. Our experts recommend that it be done once a year. In areas where the water is hard, it’s best to perform this maintenance task every six months. Draining the system can dramatically improve the system’s heating capacity and keep the water sanitary. To drain the water heater, follow these steps.

What is sediment?

Sediment contains a mixture of rock, dirt, contaminants, toxins and debris. While harmless in small quantities, the sediment can quickly become a problem if it accumulates to higher amounts. As the sediment enters the water heater, it begins to settle at the bottom of the tank.

Understanding the risks of sediment

The high concentration of minerals affect the hardness of the water. The effects of hard water can be seen when dishes have a residue on them after being removed from the dishwasher. After showering, the skin may be overly dry. Sedimentation can contaminant the water supply by introducing high amounts of bacteria, toxins or even rust.

How does sediment affect the water heater?

The sediment can affect the performance of the system. Too much buildup leads to corrosion and can cause rust to form. The mineral problems contributes to clogging problems as well. The system can operate noisily when it is forced to work harder than it normally would due to the high concentration of sediment in the system.

How do you drain the water heater?

The water supply should be cut off. Depending on whether or not your unit is powered by gas or electricity, you will need to shut either of the two off temporarily. A hose must be attached to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater. All valves on the unit should be opened. The tank should be drained until empty. Leave the cold water valve open, and cut on the cold water supply. The cold water will remove the hardened sedimentation. After the water turns clear, close the valves and refill the tank.

A water heater can last up to 20 years when it’s regularly serviced as recommended by the manufacturer. Clean water properly sanitized requires that sediment levels be kept to a minimum in your Trinity home.

If you haven’t drained the water heater for years, schedule an appointment with your Trinity and Murrieta plumbing team, Roman Plumbing,  at (727) 858-3412.