Over time, minerals in your water settle to the bottom of your water heater tank as sediment. Left alone, that sediment costs you money and shortens the life of the unit. Annual flushing is simple maintenance that pays off.
What sediment does
Sediment forms an insulating layer between the burner and the water, forcing the heater to work harder and longer. That means higher energy bills, slower recovery, popping noises, and premature tank failure.
Signs you're overdue
- Rumbling or popping sounds during heating
- Rusty or cloudy hot water
- Longer wait for hot water than before
- Rising energy bills with no other cause
How flushing works
The process involves shutting off the heater, connecting a hose to the drain valve, and draining the tank to flush out sediment before refilling. On gas units the burner is turned off; on electric units the power is cut first to protect the elements.
DIY or professional?
Handy homeowners can flush a tank themselves, but if you've never done it, if the drain valve is stuck, or if a lot of sediment has accumulated, a plumber can do it safely and inspect the unit at the same time.
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