June 15/2025
Your Guide to Draining a Water Heater
Draining your water heater is a simple but essential part of home maintenance. Over time, sediment and minerals from your water supply build up at the bottom of the tank. If left unchecked, this buildup can reduce the efficiency of your unit, increase energy bills, and even cause long-term damage. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-timer, this guide will walk you through how to safely and effectively drain your water heater. And when in doubt, calling a professional plumber from Mr. Rooter Plumbing is always a smart move.
Why You Should Drain Your Water Heater
Your water heater works hard every day to provide hot water for showers, laundry, dishwashing, and more. Over time, minerals in hard water settle at the bottom of the tank. This can reduce heating efficiency, shorten the lifespan of your water heater, create popping or rumbling noises during operation, and lead to clogs in your plumbing system.
Draining your tank once a year can help prevent these issues and keep everything running smoothly. If you're unsure of your water heater’s condition or hear unusual noises, a plumbing repair service from Mr. Rooter Plumbing can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following items.
- Garden hose
- Bucket (optional)
- Screwdriver or wrench
- Gloves and safety goggles
- Towel or rag
And always remember: if you feel uncomfortable performing any part of this task, contact a licensed plumber to do it for you.
Step-by-Step: How to Drain a Water Heater
1. Turn Off the Power or Gas Supply
For electric heaters, turn off the power at the circuit breaker. For gas heaters, turn the thermostat to the "pilot" setting.
2. Shut Off the Cold Water Supply
Locate the cold water valve at the top of your water heater and turn it off to stop water from entering the tank during draining.
3. Connect a Hose to the Drain Valve
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve near the bottom of the tank. Place the other end in a floor drain, bucket, or outside area where water can safely flow.
4. Open a Hot Water Tap
Open a hot water tap in a sink or tub to relieve pressure in the system and allow water to flow out more easily.
5. Open the Drain Valve
Carefully open the drain valve. Water will begin to flow through the hose. Be cautious—it may be very hot.
6. Flush the Tank (Optional but Recommended)
Once the tank is empty, briefly turn the cold water valve back on to flush out any remaining sediment. Let it run until the water from the hose looks clear.
7. Close the Valve and Refill the Tank
Shut the drain valve, disconnect the hose, and turn the cold water supply back on. Keep the hot water tap open until water flows out steadily, indicating the tank is full.
8. Restore Power or Gas Supply
Finally, turn the power back on or switch the gas control to “on.”
Stay Ahead of Problems
Routine maintenance, like draining your water heater in Tinton Falls, helps you avoid costly breakdowns and ensures your hot water supply stays reliable. Make it a part of your yearly home maintenance schedule—or let the pros at Mr. Rooter Plumbing handle it for you.
Call Us
Knowing how to drain your water heater is a great step toward keeping your home’s plumbing system in peak condition. But if you’re unsure or encounter a problem along the way, trust the reliable plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing to provide expert plumbing repair services and peace of mind. Call today to schedule a service and keep your hot water flowing year-round.
