Your water heater is an essential home appliance that provides the hot water required to complete daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and bathing. If you fail to maintain your unit properly, it can lead to many issues that could have been avoided.
One such task you should always prioritize is flushing your water heater, which will keep it operating efficiently and safely. Failure to routinely flush your unit can lead to system failures that may even be dangerous. In this blog, we look into how to flush your water heater and why it’s critical for keeping your unit running properly and safely.
What Does It Mean To Flush a Water Heater?
Flushing your water heater involves removing the sediment that builds up at the bottom of your tank over time. Eventually, the sediment and mineral buildup results in scaling; this is noticeable as a filmy coating on your plumbing fixtures.
For best results, it’s recommended to flush your unit twice a year, once in the spring and again in the fall. To flush your unit, you should turn off the gas, electricity, and water. Next, open a faucet, preferably in a tub or somewhere comparable. Next, connect a hose to your unit’s drain valve. From here, open the drain valve, reconnect your home’s water, and proceed with flushing your unit. Afterward, refill your water heater’s tank and restore power to the unit.
What Happens When a Water Heater Is Not Flushed?
If you fail to flush the sediment buildup in the bottom of your tank, many avoidable issues can occur. Neglecting a water heater flushing can also lead to a significant hazard. Some of these issues include:
- Sediment buildup will eventually lower the efficiency of your unit, making it less reliable.
- The longer you go without flushing, the more your unit is at risk of corrosion, decreasing its structural integrity.
- The sediment buildup can clog or block your unit’s pressure relief valve; as the name suggests, this valve relieves excess pressure in your water tank. If the valve is blocked or clogged, it won’t be able to adequately relieve pressure in your tank, and your unit may begin to leak or even burst.
Choose Isaac Heating & Air Conditioning for Water Heater Services
Isaac Heating & Air Conditioning is your one-stop shop for water heater services in Upstate New York. Established in 1945, our family-owned and -operated team consists of background-checked, licensed, & certified technicians who receive thorough training.
We conveniently service all brands, provide 24-hour service, and offer free replacement estimates. We also provide upfront pricing and financing options for added peace of mind. We are proud to be part of the Rochester Top 100 and a recipient of the BBB International Torch Award.
For expert water heater services, schedule with the Isaac Heating & Air Conditioning team today!