How to Remove Sediment from an Electric Water Heater
Minerals in the water supply accumulate over time, and sediment sits at the bottom of your water heater. A little bit of residue is no reason for worry, but too much scale at the bottom of the tank diminishes the water heater's efficiency. Your water heater will work harder to get showers, laundry, and dishwashing to the desired temperatures. An inefficient heating system decreases the lifespan of the water heater and costs more to operate. Flushing the tank every six to 12 months prevents leaks and potential damage. We will discuss how to flush a residential water heater tank and limit sediment buildup in the tank.
Flushing the water heater tank
Popping or thumping noises originating from the water heater signifies the need for a flush. Although the clamor may seem innocent, it tells you there is boiling water stuck under the congregating minerals in the tank. If ignored, the boiling can result in pressure inside the tank, leaks, or a burst water heater. Flushing an electric water heater is easy when you follow these steps:
Turn off the electrical power source to the water heater at the circuit breaker.
Position the cold water valve to 90 degrees or "off" to prevent more water from seeping into the tank.
Wait for the water to cool for one to two hours before proceeding with the tank flush.
Connect a hose to the spigot that's on the side of the water heater. A garden or drain hose works best.
Place the other end of your garden hose outside or in an area where it can properly drain. A basement drain or bucket that can hold hot water suffices if outdoors is not an option.
Once everything is in position, run a hot water faucet inside the home to stop pressure from building up within the pipes.
Using a screwdriver or other flathead piece, slowly rotate the drain valve at the tank. Be careful here as the water dripping out will be HOT.
Continue step 7 until the water is clear.
After draining the tank, shut off the water heater drain valve, and return the cold water valve to its original position.
Keep the faucets on to test the water flow and turn them off when the water coming from the tap is transparent or sediment-free.
Return power to the unit and let the tank refill.
After 20-30 minutes, test the hot water to make sure everything fully functions and looks clear.
If the process is unclear or if DIY plumbing is not on your list of favorite hobbies, check with a trusted local plumbing company for help flushing your water heater. Regular flushing will help to increase the lifespan of your unit.
Preventing scale or sediment buildup
Depending on the hardness of your water, installing a water softener or water conditioning system at the water main will help the level of minerals in your tank stay relatively low. Another option for decreasing the need to flush the tank is to install a tankless water heater. Though the tankless alternative is more expensive to install initially, people report doubling the life expectancy of their water heater by making the switch.
Protect the longevity of your electric water heater
Removing minerals from your water heater's tank one to two times per year will add to its lifespan and help the heating system work better. You can install water conditioning devices or opt for a tankless water heater to minimize or eliminate the need to flush the tank.
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