Hot Water Heater Maintenance Flush

To flush a water heater start by turning off the heater s power source using the breaker or thermostat.

Hot water heater maintenance flush.

Attach the shop vacuum hose and fire up the vacuum. Let it run for a few minutes until the water exiting your hose runs clear. To flush your hot water tank simply turn on the cold water spigot leading into your hot water tank. Most homeowners should flush their water heaters every six months or so but if you have extremely hard water you may want to do it more often.

Before you begin a water heater flush. A sediment trap or softener can help with hard water to a point. Then turn on a hot water faucet in one of your sinks or tubs to prevent a vacuum from forming in the lines. Next rotate the water shut off valve on your heater clockwise to turn off the cold water supply.

Remove the temperature pressure release valve and screw in the vacuum adapter. Flushing your hot water heater could be necessary as often as every few months depending on the mineral content of your local water supply. While the water might be running clear and isn t brown you may still have some sediment. However the hardness of your water plays a part in this and you may find it better to flush two to three times per year if your home s water is especially poor quality.