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How to Drain a Hot Water Tank or Water Heater ?

A hot water tank is a crucial home appliance in a country like Canada. Major household activities like washing clothes, doing dishes, bathing, etc., depend upon our hot water tank system. We can’t imagine a day without hot water in our home.

To ensure a constant flow of hot water in your home, it is essential to repair , maintain,  flush and drain a hot water tank. Repairs should always be handled by a professional plumber, such as Everest Drain and Plumbing of Toronto. However, regular maintenance and flushing can be done on your own by following the steps below.

This blog will guide you to clean and flush your hot water tank like a pro.

Everest Plumbing Jan 30, 2025
drain a hot water tank
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Why Is Draining Your Water Heater Important?

Draining a hot water tank simply to flush and clean out the debris and sediment buildup inside the hot water tank.

Draining the hot water tank is one of those simple jobs that nonetheless ensures sediment accumulation doesn’t build up, thus offering efficiency and extending the life expectancy of your water heater. After some time, minerals and all other forms of debris settle down to the bottom of the tank, making the operation of a heater difficult and inefficient. It can increase energy bills and also damage your water heater.

If you don’t periodically drain your hot water tank, you may experience problems with slow heating, noisy operation, or discolored water. It’s always good to make draining your water heater part of your routine at least once a year to keep your system in good condition.

Watch this Youtube video to see how the hot water tank looks from the inside after long use with no maintenance.

Thinking about installing New Hot Water Tank !!!

Basic Home Tool to Drain Your Water Heater

Draining the hot water tank is easy and quick process, if you can gather or have following tools:

  • A 3 to 4-foot garden hose
  • A hose fitting/ hose bib (to connect the hose to the drain valve)
  • Any type of bucket (or direct water to a floor drain)
  • A wrench or pillars (if needed to open valves)
  • Protective hand gloves (to avoid burns)

Hot Water tank flushing basic home tools

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How Do You Drain a Water Heater?

Step 1: Shut Off the Cold Supply Valve.

First and foremost, we need to locate the cold-water supply valve and turn it off. This valve can be found on top of the heater. This will stop water flow from entering the hot water tank.

shut-off valve turning off the cold supply of cold water line

Step 2: Turn Off the Electric supply or Gas Supply

  • Electric Heater: Locate the break for the heater in your panel and turn it off.
  • Gas Heater: Turn the gas valve to the pilot position; this valve is usually located near the tank.

Switching off gas and electric for flushing hot water tank

Step 3: Let the Tank Water Cool Off

There will be water inside the tank, which is usually at a high temperature. Sit back, relax, and wait a few hours until the water cools down. You can check the water temperature by opening a nearby faucet or fixture.

BE CAUTIOUS WHEN CHECKING WATER DIRECTLY

Step 4: Connect Garden Hose to the Drain Valve

At the bottom of the tank, there you will find the drain valve. Connect the garden hose to that drain valve. Some tanks may need a drain connector or valve/hose bib to connect a garden hose. Don’t forget to place the other end of the bucket on the nearest floor drain if you have it or on the bucket.

Step 5: Turn On a Hot Water Faucet

Open the hot side of a nearby sink or any faucet to allow air into the supply line. This will help the water drain faster.

Step 6: Open the Drain Valve or Connected Hose (Let the Water Drain)

Now, its time to drain out the water. Open the drain valve or connected hose bib and let the water flow out. Water might appear dirty, if it happens, drain until you see clear.

Step 7: Flush the Tank with Fresh Water

When water has stopped flowing out. Turn on the cold-water supply line that was turned off in the first step. This will help flush out any remaining sediment. The water may appear dirty at first after turning the valve back on—continue flushing until it runs clear. During these steps, you can turn the drain valve on and off time and again, keeping a 1–2-minute gap to flush out more residue. The longer you flush the system with cold water, the cleaner your tank will be.

Step 8: Refill the Tank

Once you complete all the above steps, turn off the drain valve, then turn on the cold-water supply back, and let the tank fill up. Once full, restore power or gas to the heater.

Don’t turn on the electric or gas until the tank is refilled.

What Happens If You Don’t Drain Your Water Heater?

If you neglect flushing and cleaning your hot water tank, you may experience:

  • Sediment buildup, reducing efficiency
  • Higher energy bills
  • Clogged water supply pipe
  • Strange noises from the tank
  • Smelly Water like rotten egg
  • Shortened lifespan of the heater

Is Your Water Heater Making Wired Rumbling Noise ?

Any noise coming from the hot water tank is a clear sign that it needs repair or flushing. Never ignore these warnings, as they can lead to serious issues and costly repairs in the future.

Reason behind the rumbling noise can be varied and mean different thing. Here is common issue why hot water tank make rumbling noise:

  • Sediment Buildup: Most of time rumbling soud occured due to sediment buildup up in the bottom of  the tank due to  hard water. this buildup can trap boiling water inside making out rumblling, popping or banging noise.
  • Rust Buildup: Due the long use of hot water tank, some time rust can be buildup inside the tank. Rust buildup can cause over heating issue as well as rumbling noise.
  • More Water Pressure: Sometimes, an increase in cold water supply beyond the hot water tank’s capacity can cause unusual noises. This typically occurs when the city water pressure to the house rises unexpectedly. Installing a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) can help regulate water pressure and prevent such issues.

 

Draining your hot water tank is a simple but vital task to keep your water heater running efficiently. If you’re unsure how to do it or need professional help, Everest Drain and Plumbing is here for you. Contact us today for expert plumbing services in Toronto!. at 416-383-7378

FAQ About Draining a Hot Water Tank

How often should I drain my hot water tank?

At least once a year to prevent sediment buildup. Depend upon time size.

Can I drain my water heater myself?

Yes, but if you're unsure, it's best to hire a professional like Everest Drain and Plumbing.

How long does it take to drain a water heater?

Usually 30-45 minutes, depending on the tank size and sediment buildup.

Can I use my water heater immediately after draining?

Only after it’s fully refilled and the power/gas is restored.

Will draining my water heater reduce my energy bills?

Yes! Removing sediment improves efficiency, reducing energy costs.

Can Everest Drain and Plumbing help with water heater repairs?

Absolutely! We handle draining, maintenance, and repairs for all types of water heaters.

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