Servicing the Chicagoland Area & Suburbs | Emergency 24/7 Service
Call Today! 888-903-4070
Menu
Contact Us

How To Drain a Water Heater Tank

One of the best ways to extend the life of your water heater and ensure it operates efficiently is to flush the tank annually to remove sediment buildup. The process is straightforward, here are the steps:

  1. Shut off the water supply. Locate the cold water supply valve at the top of the water heater and turn it to the off position.
  2. Turn off the water heater. If you have a gas water heater, simply turn the thermostat knob to the “pilot” setting. If the water heater is electric, turn off the power at the breaker panel.
  3. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve located near the bottom of the tank. Place the other end of the hose near a floor drain, in a bucket (have several large buckets to empty into and rotate them if needed) or outside the home. CAUTION: Even though a water heater may be off for hours, the water in the tank may still be hot enough to scald.
  4. Open a hot water tap. Open a hot water tap on a floor above that is nearest the water heater. This will relieve pressure in the system, helping the water drain from the tank.
  5. Open the drain valve.  After all the water has drained from the tank, turn the cold water supply at the top of the tank back on for a moment. This will clear out any remaining sediment. Repeat this step until the water runs clear.

When you’re finished draining the tank, return it to operating condition by following these steps:

  1. Close the drain valve
  2. Remove the hose
  3. Turn on the cold water supply and refill the tank.
  4. Return to the hot water tap you opened earlier. Once cold water begins to flow from the tap, turn it off.
  5. Turn the gas valve back on from the pilot position or turn electricity back on to the tank.
  6. Check the valve opening to ensure it’s not leaking.

IMPORTANT: Always read and follow all manufacturer’s directions and warnings for your particular water heater. Some water heater tanks need to be completely filled to avoid damage to the gas burner or heating elements.

Need help maintaining your water heater? Call ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric. We can help with all your home plumbing needs.

Read What Your
Neighbors Are Saying About ABC
  • “Tom was awesome! He is very personable and explains the whole process well. He did a great job and ensured that he used 5-star service throughout the process. I will definitely use ABC and Tom again in the future for electrical work.”

  • “Bill showed up on time to repair our broken air conditioner. ABC kept in touch throughout the day to let me know time he would be arriving too. Bill was professional, friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. We wound up signing up for monthly care package because Bill and ABC really made…”

  • “We were very pleased with the service performed by Brett Pack in performing the annual maintenance of our air conditioning unit. He noted it was low on refrigerant, which he then added after consulting with us. He also made sure we took advantage of all available discounts.”

  • “Tom did a super job fixing our electrical problem. He is one of the best electricians I have ever had in my home for repair work. I would highly recommend Tom and ABC Company if you need any type of electrical work. He took his time and explained everything and…”

  • “I am so impressed with Chris and ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric. His friendliness honest approach to his Job is remarkable. Thanks Chris for making my day and believing that they are still great honorable people out there.”

  • “Our AC was not working in the 90-degree summer heat. Josh identified that power was not going to the furnace blower. He identified that power was not going to the furnace breaker. His keen eye spotted that the wire leading into the breaker had frayed. He cut out the frayed…”

Read more

Our Guarantees

  • satisfaction guaranteed
  • customer service guarantee
  • "no surprises" guarantee
  • no-nonsense parts & labor warranty
  • See More +

Our AC Guarantees

  • equipment size guarantee
  • lifetime installation materials warranty
  • AC "level for life" warranty
  • the exclusive "no-lemon" guarantee
  • See More +
Our Promises to You
  • Convenient for You!

    We work on your
    schedule.

    Schedule today
  • Background Checks!

    We do drug tests and background
    checks before hiring.

    Learn More
  • No Need for Stress!

    Get ABC's worry-free guarantee
    at no cost.

    Get Started
  • No Surprises!

    Pricing is by the job, not
    the hour.

    Contact Us