How is a water heater flushed?

For Tankless Water Heaters, click here for information. Otherwise, continue reading.

Read all instructions provided here before proceeding as precautions must be taken to prevent scalding.

1. Turn OFF power to the water heater at the circuit breaker (electric) or main gas line (gas). WARNING: Before removing any access panels or servicing the water heater, make sure the electrical supply to the water heater is turned “OFF”. Failure to do this could result in DEATH, SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
2. CLOSE the cold water inlet valve to the water heater.
3. OPEN a nearby hot water faucet and leave open to allow air in for draining.
4. CONNECT a hose to the drain valve and terminate to an adequate drain or outdoors.
5. OPEN the water heater drain valve to allow for tank draining. NOTE: If the water heater is going to be shut down and drained for an extended period, the drain valve should be left open with the hose connected allowing water to terminate to an adequate drain.
6. CLOSE the drain valve when the water stops draining and disconnect the hose.
7. The hot faucet should still be OPEN to allow the exit of air from the water heater. OPEN the shut-off valve at the cold water inlet line. NOTE: The cold water supply valve must be left open when the water heater is in use. You will hear the heater start to fill.
8. To ensure complete filling of the tank, allow air to exit by the nearby open hot water faucet. Allow water to run until a constant flow is obtained. This will let the air out of the water heater and the piping. CAUTION: Never use the hot water heater unless it is completely full of water. To prevent damage to the tank and heating element, the tank must be filled with water. Water must flow from the hot water faucet before turning “ON” power.