Each year, we task ourselves with a mission to keep each one of our customers’ homes running, yours included. Spring is great for cleaning and reorganization, but it can also serve as the perfect opportunity to refresh your plumbing system.
One of the most crucial parts of your plumbing is your water heater. Over time, your water heater might lose efficiency as minerals settle at the bottom of the tank. You or a professional should flush out the mineral deposits at least once a year to allow the tank’s heating system to heat your water more efficiently. Plus, a good water heater flush sustains the lifespan of the appliance.
We can help you perform the flush yourself with clear step-by-step instructions.
Collect materials.
To get started, you’ll need a flathead screwdriver and a garden hose attachment. The good news is you don’t need to turn off the water supply because you will need water pressure to flush out any accumulated minerals or scale build-up.
Shut off your gas or electricity, depending on what powers your tank.
If you have a gas water heater, find the gas control and change the setting to pilot light only. This way, your heater isn’t activated while flushing the tank. If it’s electric, then you’ll need to flip the breaker on your circuit panel that connects to your water heater. Shutting the electricity off is crucial because it protects the tank’s components when you flush it.
Connect the drain hose.
Start the draining process by placing one end of your hose on the drain valve and the other end in a bucket or container.
Open the drain valve.
Next, you’ll use the screwdriver. Place it in the screw on top of the drain valve. When you turn the screw, you’ll open the valve, so you have to make sure the other end of the hose is in the desired location to drain.
Drain the water to clear the sediment.
Then, let the water flow freely for about 10 minutes allowing the water to flush out any sediment inside. To ensure that most of the sediment gets flushed out, you’ll pump the water supply valve on and off to stir up the sediment at the bottom. Do this for about 3 to 5 pumps or until the water runs clear out the valve.
After you’ve flushed your water heater, you can keep it in peak condition by scheduling annual preventative maintenance with Bacon. Additionally, use your temperature control on your water heater to save energy throughout the year. If you go on vacation, set your system to “vacation” or “pilot.” While you’re home, consider setting it to 120 degrees for even more energy savings.
Spring cleaning with Bacon puts money in your pocket, and our plumbers are always here to get your home ready for the season. Call us today if you need water heater service or need expert advice!
