Don’t Ignore Your Water Heater: 5 Reasons to Schedule a Flush

Intro

It is important to not ignore your water heater. Regularly scheduling a flush of your water heater can extend its life and save you money in the long run. Flushing your water heater is a simple maintenance task, yet it is often overlooked or forgotten. Here are 5 reasons why you should never ignore your water heater and schedule a flush.

1) What is a water heater flush?

A water heater flush is a process of draining the tank and cleaning out any sediment that has built up inside. This is an important maintenance task that can keep your water heater running smoothly and efficiently. Neglecting to flush your water heater can result in a host of issues, including reduced energy efficiency, diminished hot water supply, and even a shorter lifespan for the appliance. In this post, we’ll go over 5 reasons to flush your water heater and discuss how this simple task can save you money and extend the life of your water heater.

2) How often should you flush your water heater?

It is recommended to flush your water heater at least once a year. However, the frequency of flushing may depend on several factors such as the size and age of your water heater, the quality of your water supply, and the usage of hot water in your home. As mentioned earlier, neglecting to flush your water heater can lead to several problems that can cause serious damage to your system. That’s why it’s important to know the 5 reasons to flush your water heater and make it a regular part of your maintenance routine.

3) 5 reasons to flush your water heater

1. Prevents buildup of sediment: Over time, minerals and sediment can accumulate in your water heater tank, reducing its efficiency and shortening its lifespan. Flushing your water heater removes these sediments, keeping it running smoothly and extending its life.
2. Improves water quality: Sediment buildup in your water heater can cause water to appear discolored or foul-smelling. Flushing the tank removes these impurities, improving the taste and odor of your tap water.
3. Saves energy: When sediment builds up in your water heater tank, it insulates the water from the heating element. This means your water heater has to work harder and use more energy to heat the water. Flushing your water heater helps it operate more efficiently, reducing your energy bill.
4. Prevents leaks and damage: Sediment buildup in your water heater can cause leaks and damage to the tank, resulting in costly repairs or replacement. Regular flushing can prevent this damage and save you money in the long run.
5. Provides peace of mind: Regular maintenance, including flushing your water heater, can give you peace of mind that your system is running smoothly and reliably. It’s a simple and easy step that can help you avoid unexpected problems down the road.

By flushing your water heater regularly, you can improve water quality, save energy, prevent leaks, and prolong the life of your system. So don’t ignore your water heater – schedule a flush today!

4) Signs that your water heater needs to be flushed

If you’re wondering whether or not it’s time to flush your water heater, here are some signs to watch out for:

1. Discolored water: If the water coming out of your faucets is discolored, it may be a sign that your water heater needs to be flushed. Sediment buildup inside the tank can cause the water to turn brown or yellow.
2. Foul odors: If there is a strange smell coming from your hot water, it could be a sign of bacterial growth inside the tank. A flush can help eliminate the bacteria and improve the quality of your water.
3. Reduced hot water supply: If you notice that your hot water supply is dwindling, it could be a sign that sediment buildup is reducing the capacity of your tank. Flushing the tank can help restore its efficiency.
4. Strange noises: If you hear rumbling, banging, or popping noises coming from your water heater, it could be a sign of sediment buildup. Flushing the tank can help remove the sediment and quiet the noises.
5. Leaks: If you notice water pooling around your water heater, it could be a sign that the tank has corroded due to sediment buildup. A flush may help prevent further damage and prolong the life of your water heater.

By paying attention to these signs, you can catch problems early and avoid costly repairs down the road. So don’t ignore your water heater – schedule a flush today!

5) How to flush your water heater

Now that you know the importance of flushing your water heater, you may be wondering how to do it. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Turn off the power supply or gas supply to your water heater.
2. Shut off the cold water supply valve going into your water heater.
3. Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater and run it to a nearby drain or outside.
4. Open the pressure relief valve at the top of the water heater to allow air into the system.
5. Open the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater and let the water flow out until it runs clear.
6. Close the drain valve and pressure relief valve and remove the garden hose.
7. Turn on the cold water supply valve and let the water fill the tank.
8. Turn on the power supply or gas supply to the water heater.

It’s important to note that if you’re not comfortable flushing your water heater on your own, it’s always best to call a professional plumber to do the job. They have the tools and expertise needed to ensure the process is done safely and effectively.  If you are in central Indiana and need a water heater, Westfield water heater with Coopers Water would be great to check out.