Spring Maintenance: It’s Time to Flush Your Water Heater

As temperatures rise and we move into spring, it’s the perfect time to take care of your home's often-overlooked systems—starting with your water heater. Over time, sediment builds up inside your tank, especially in areas with hard water. If left unchecked, this sediment can reduce efficiency, raise energy bills, and even shorten the lifespan of your water heater. 

At Abel Plumbing, we recommend flushing your water heater every spring. Let’s discuss how this simple spring cleaning task will improve efficiency, save energy, and extend the life of your water heater. 

Why Flushing Your Water Heater Matters

• Improves Energy Efficiency
  Sediment creates a barrier between the heating element and the water, forcing your unit to work harder. Flushing it out restores proper heat transfer and reduces energy use.
  

• Extends the Life of Your Water Heater
  Mineral buildup can cause your tank to overheat and corrode, leading to premature failure. Regular flushing helps protect your investment.
  

• Delivers Cleaner, Hotter Water
  Sediment can make your water look cloudy, smell metallic, or even affect water temperature. A clean tank means better performance.
  

• Reduces Noise
  If you’ve been hearing popping or rumbling sounds, it’s likely due to sediment. Flushing often quiets a noisy heater.

How to Flush Your Water Heater: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re comfortable tackling a DIY project, here’s how to flush your water heater:

Important: This guide applies to standard tank water heaters. Always check your manufacturer’s instructions and turn off power or gas before starting.

• Turn Off the Power or Gas Supply

• Electric heaters: switch off at the breaker.

• Gas heaters: set to “pilot” mode.
  

• Shut Off the Cold Water Supply

• Locate the valve at the top of the heater and turn it off.
  

• Attach a Garden Hose to the Drain Valve

• Make sure the other end leads to a safe drainage area—driveway, bucket, or floor drain.
  

• Open the Pressure Relief Valve (Optional for Venting)

• This helps air flow and allows the tank to drain more easily.
  

• Open the Drain Valve

• Let the water and sediment flow out completely.
  

• Flush with Fresh Water

• Turn the cold water supply back on for a minute or two to stir and remove the remaining sediment.
  

• Close the Drain and Refill the Tank

• Shut the drain valve and turn the cold water back on until the tank is full.
  

• Turn the Power or Gas Back On

• Once the tank is full and refilled, restore power or relight the pilot.

Don’t Want to DIY? Call the Pros at Abel Plumbing!

If flushing your water heater sounds like more than you want to handle—or if you notice signs of rust, corrosion, or reduced performance—it’s best to contact a licensed plumber like Abel Plumbing. At Abel Plumbing, we offer professional water heater maintenance and flushing services that:

• Ensure complete sediment removal

• Check for leaks, pressure valve issues, or corrosion

• Keep your system running safely and efficiently

Schedule Your Spring Water Heater Maintenance Today

Flushing your water heater every spring is a small task that can deliver big benefits. Whether you do it yourself or call in the experts, it’s one of the easiest ways to improve performance and avoid costly repairs. Ready for a professional flush? Contact Abel Plumbing today online or at 763-682-4105 to schedule your spring water heater maintenance!