Flushing a water heater is a good idea once a year. There are several ways to do this, including draining and flushing with vinegar. This process is quick and easy. The first step is to turn on the water heater’s spigot. The hot water spigot should be turned on for at least 20 minutes.
Draining water heater
If you use a water heater, you should drain it at least once a year. If you have hard water, you may want to do it more frequently. During inactivity, sediments can build up inside the tank and cause leaks. The sediments can also reduce the capacity of your unit and clog the drain valve.
Start by opening the drain valve. If your water heater is below ground level, you’ll need two lengths of hose. Alternatively, you can connect a portable pump to the exterior drain of your home. Before you open the valve, you’ll want to wait until the water has cooled completely before you start the process. A long shower can help speed up the draining process.
After you have cooled down, open the water supply valve and drain the water from the water heater. You may have to wait a while for the drain valve to close, but this is essential to avoid burns or damage to the drain pipe.
Flushing a water heater with vinegar
To flush your water heater, you must follow certain steps. First, you should drain the water from the heater. After a full drain, pour vinegar into the tank. Allow the solution to sit in the tank for about 24 hours. Once the 24 hours are up, you can connect the hose to the drain valve of your water heater and flush it out.
After the vinegar has dissolved the mineral deposits, the water heater is ready for use. To flush your water heater, you need three gallons of food-grade vinegar. You can use cleaning-strength vinegar if you have it, but it will take more time. Food-grade vinegar contains 6 percent acidity.
To make sure that your water heater is safe to use, turn off the gas pipe leading to the pilot light, thermostat, and the cold water valve. The cold water valve is typically located near the top of your water heater. Before performing this flush, make sure the cold water valve is turned off to prevent a vacuum.
Cost of a water heater flush
A water heater flush is a routine home maintenance task that can prevent major problems. It’s inexpensive and quick. Most manufacturers recommend hiring a professional plumber to perform the service. Plumbing professionals are familiar with water heater systems and can spot problems early on. A water heater flush is a quick and easy process that should be done annually for most homes.
The sediment that builds up in a water heater can cause it to lose efficiency and cause it to fail. It can also damage the heating elements and tank floor. It will also shorten the life of the unit. Flushing your water heater can save you money on utility bills and repair bills.
Water heater flushes should be performed at least once a year, although if you have a softener installed, you can get away with flushing every few years. However, if you live in an area with hard water, you may need to flush your water heater more frequently. The cost of a water heater flush is around $100 for a professional service we can provide an exact price when we see your situation, and it will help your water heater to operate more efficiently.
If you need a plumber in the Mesa, Gilbert, Tempe, Chandler, or Scottsdale area contact our team for help.
