What Are The Benefits Of Flushing Your Water Heater?

Cold showers are the bane of modern life, certainly inevitable if the water heater in your home isn't regularly inspected and maintained for maximum function. Conducting methodical checks every 6 months can significantly reduce the chances of unexpected breakdowns, sparing you the discomforts of cold showers until a plumber in Franklin TN can assist.

Modern technologies such as solar units, tankless water heaters, and heat pumps also require proper maintenance, but this should be done ONLY by professionals. DIY jobs are not recommended for these sophisticated systems. However, basic maintenance steps for conventional water heaters can be a DIY project for skilled homeowners.

Inspect Potential Problems With Your Water Heater

Before touching the water heater, inspect the house for too hot or too cold water from faucets and showers, as these are warning signs of looming trouble. This could indicate a problem with the thermostat or heating element.

Drips, puddles, and any signs of leaks around the unit are critical to check. Signs of rust or cracks on the tank necessitate professional replacement or repair.

The appearance of the burner flame in gas water heaters is also telling; a blue color signifies efficient function, while yellow or orange flames suggest the need for replacements or adjustments.

DIY Tips and Guidelines to Safely Maintain Your Water Heater

Inspect the Pressure Relief Valve

This valve releases pressure from the tank, and a stuck valve can lead to dangerous pressure build-up. The water heater manual will guide you to the valve's location.

Ensure the drain outlet is clear before manually opening the valve. Hot water spraying out signifies the system is functioning correctly.

Flushing Out the Tank

1. Turn off the water heater’s circuit breaker and the cold water inlet valve.
2. Attach a hose to the drain outlet and direct the water to a floor drain or outside.
3. Open the drain and pressure relief valves to quickly drain the tank, removing sediment build-up.
4. Close both valves once the tank is empty.
5. Turn on all hot water faucets in the house to dry, then fill the tank by opening the cold water inlet valve. Turn off the faucets once the water flows back into the tank.
6. Reactivate the water heater's circuit breaker to heat the clean water in the tank.

When It’s Too Much Work - Call Brentwood Star Plumbing

Consider professional help if flushing your water heater seems too daunting. A licensed plumber can handle corrosion checks, tank flushing, and anode rod inspection.

Regular maintenance is crucial for a functional water heater tank. If you haven’t started yet, now is the time, but don’t hesitate to leave it to plumbing experts if the task proves overwhelming.

Thanks for reading!