Should you’re like most individuals, you most likely do not take into consideration your scorching water heater fairly often. However relating to sustaining your private home, it is probably the most necessary home equipment to maintain in good working order. One of the necessary upkeep duties you’ll be able to carry out in your water heater is to empty it. This can assist to take away sediment and scale buildup, which might scale back the effectivity of your water heater and result in untimely failure. As well as, draining your water heater is an efficient technique to test for leaks and different issues.
Draining your scorching water heater is a comparatively easy course of, however it’s necessary to observe the steps rigorously to keep away from damaging the equipment. Earlier than you start, you may want to assemble a couple of instruments:
– A backyard hose
– A bucket or different container to catch the water
– A wrench to disconnect the water provide line
– Non-compulsory: A moist/dry vacuum to take away any remaining water
Upon getting your instruments assembled, you’ll be able to observe these steps to empty your scorching water heater: First, flip off the water provide to the water heater. That is often executed by turning a valve positioned close to the highest of the heater. Subsequent, join the backyard hose to the drain valve on the backside of the water heater. Open the drain valve and permit the water to empty into the bucket or different container. Lastly, as soon as the water heater is empty, shut the drain valve and reconnect the water provide line. Activate the water provide and test for leaks.
Understanding Your Scorching Water Heater
Earlier than embarking on the duty of draining your scorching water heater, it’s essential to familiarize your self with its anatomy and performance. A scorching water heater is a cylindrical tank that shops and heats water for home use. It usually consists of the next elements:
1. Tank
The tank is the central part of the new water heater, serving because the container for water storage. It’s usually fabricated from sturdy supplies reminiscent of metal or plastic and is designed to resist the stress and warmth of the water it incorporates. The dimensions of the tank determines the capability of the heater and the quantity of scorching water it could possibly present. Widespread tank sizes vary from 30 to 120 gallons.
The tank has an insulated exterior to attenuate warmth loss, guaranteeing that water stays scorching for an prolonged interval. It additionally includes a dip tube that extends to the underside of the tank. Chilly water enters the heater via the dip tube and is heated because it rises via the tank.
2. Heating Components
Scorching water heaters make use of two important kinds of heating components: electrical and fuel burners. Electrical heating components are immersed straight into the water and use electrical energy to generate warmth. Gasoline burners, alternatively, combust pure fuel or propane to provide warmth, which is transferred to the water through a warmth exchanger.
3. Thermostat
The thermostat performs a vital function in controlling the temperature of the water within the tank. It senses the temperature and prompts the heating components when needed to take care of the specified setting. The thermostat might be adjusted to swimsuit particular person preferences, with increased settings leading to hotter water.
4. Reduction Valve
The reduction valve is a security system that forestalls the tank from rupturing attributable to extreme stress. When the water stress within the tank exceeds a predetermined restrict, the reduction valve opens and releases water to alleviate the stress. This valve is important in stopping tank harm and potential damage.
Security Precautions Earlier than Draining
1. Flip Off Energy and Water Provide
Earlier than draining the water heater, it is essential to isolate it from energy and water sources. Swap off {the electrical} breaker or fuel valve supplying energy to the unit. Moreover, find and shut the water provide valves linked to the water heater’s chilly water inlet and scorching water outlet pipes.
2. Relieve Stress
As soon as the facility and water provide are turned off, it is important to alleviate the stress constructed up contained in the water heater. To do that:
| Water Heater Sort | Stress Reduction Valve Location | Relieve Stress |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Water Heater | High or aspect of the tank | Raise the stress reduction valve lever upwards to launch water and stress |
| Gasoline Water Heater | Close to the burner meeting | Find a separate stress reduction valve and elevate its lever to launch water and stress |
Warning:
It is necessary to put on protecting gear, reminiscent of gloves and eye safety, when releasing stress from the water heater, as scorching water could spray out.
3. Collect Vital Instruments
Having the suitable instruments for the job will make the draining course of smoother. You will want:
– A backyard hose
– A big bucket or container to gather the water
– Instruments to disconnect the water heater from the plumbing, reminiscent of wrenches or pliers (test your water heater’s handbook for particular necessities)
Instruments and Supplies Wanted
To empty your scorching water heater, you have to the next instruments and supplies:
- Adjustable wrench
- Backyard hose
- Bucket
- Rags
- Security glasses
Security Precautions
Earlier than you start draining your scorching water heater, you will need to take the next security precautions:
- Flip off the facility to the new water heater.
- Flip off the water provide to the new water heater.
- Enable the new water heater to chill for a number of hours.
- Put on security glasses to guard your eyes from water and particles.
- Have a bucket able to catch the water that can drain from the new water heater.
- Open a window to ventilate the realm.
Step-by-Step Directions
Upon getting gathered the required instruments and supplies and brought the required security precautions, you’ll be able to start draining your scorching water heater. Comply with these step-by-step directions:
- Join the backyard hose to the drain valve on the backside of the new water heater.
- Place the bucket below the tip of the hose.
- Slowly open the drain valve. The water will start to empty from the new water heater.
- Enable the new water heater to empty fully. This may increasingly take a number of minutes.
- As soon as the new water heater is empty, shut the drain valve.
- Disconnect the backyard hose.
- Activate the water provide to the new water heater.
- Activate the facility to the new water heater.
- Test for leaks.
Turning Off the Water Provide and Energy
Earlier than draining your scorching water heater, it is important to show off each the water provide and energy to forestall any harm or accidents. This is the way to do it:
Water Provide
Find the chilly water provide valve, which is usually located close to the highest of the water heater. Shut the valve by turning it clockwise till it is totally shut.
Gasoline Water Heater
Step 1: Flip off the fuel valve. The fuel valve is usually positioned close to the underside of the water heater. Discover the spherical knob or deal with and switch it clockwise to close off the fuel circulation.
Step 2: Extinguish the pilot mild. In case your water heater has a pilot mild, you may must extinguish it. To do that, find the small flame within the burner chamber and thoroughly blow it out together with your breath.
Step 3: Disconnect the fuel line. As soon as the pilot mild is off, you’ll be able to disconnect the fuel line from the water heater. Use a wrench to loosen the nut connecting the fuel line to the water heater and take away the road.
Electrical Water Heater
Find the breaker panel or fuse field in your house. Determine the breaker or fuse that corresponds to the water heater and swap it off to chop off the facility.
Connecting a Drain Hose
5. Attaching the Drain Hose:
a. Find the Drain Valve: Usually, it is a small lever or a threaded cap on the backside of the water heater.
b. Place the Drain Hose: Join one finish of a typical backyard hose to the drain valve. Guarantee it is lengthy sufficient to succeed in a drain or an appropriate disposal space.
c. Safe the Connection: Use a hose clamp or wrap the reference to plumber’s tape to forestall leaks. Tighten the connection securely however keep away from overtightening.
d. Open the Drain Valve: Steadily open the drain valve by turning the lever or eradicating the cap. Word that water could circulation out instantly.
e. Monitor the Water Movement: Control the water circulation to make sure it is draining easily. Modify the drain valve as wanted to manage the circulation fee.
f. Shut the Drain Valve: As soon as the water heater is empty, shut the drain valve by turning the lever again or inserting the cap tightly.
g. Disconnect the Drain Hose: Take away the drain hose from the drain valve and retailer it for future use.
| Drain Hose Connection | Steps |
|---|---|
| Find the Drain Valve | Determine the drain valve on the backside of the water heater. |
| Place the Drain Hose | Join one finish of the hose to the drain valve. |
| Safe the Connection | Use a hose clamp or plumber’s tape to forestall leaks. |
| Open the Drain Valve | Open the drain valve step by step to launch water. |
| Monitor the Water Movement | Control the water circulation and regulate the drain valve if wanted. |
| Shut the Drain Valve | Shut the drain valve as soon as the water heater is empty. |
| Disconnect the Drain Hose | Take away the drain hose and retailer it for future use. |
Draining the Scorching Water Heater
1. Flip Off the Energy
In case your heater makes use of electrical energy, flip off the circuit breaker or fuse. If it makes use of fuel, flip off the fuel provide valve.
2. Flip Off the Water Provide
Find the chilly water inlet valve on the high of the water heater. Flip the valve clockwise to close off the water provide.
3. Connect a Drain Hose
Join one finish of a hose to the drain valve on the backside of the water heater. Place the opposite finish in a bucket or drain.
4. Open the Drain Valve
Rigorously open the drain valve. Water will begin draining slowly.
5. Open a Scorching Water Faucet
Open a scorching water faucet someplace in your home to permit air to enter the water heater. This can assist the water drain quicker.
6. Full Drain
The water heater ought to drain fully in 30-60 minutes. As soon as the water stops flowing, shut the drain valve and take away the hose.
| Water Heater Sort | Drain Valve Location |
|---|---|
| Electrical | Backside of the tank |
| Gasoline | Left or proper aspect of the tank |
Flushing the Tank and Sediment Elimination
Draining the Tank
Flip off the water provide to the water heater by closing the inlet valve. Open a scorching water faucet someplace in the home to alleviate stress within the tank. Join a backyard hose to the drain valve on the backside of the water heater and run it to a ground drain or exterior. Open the drain valve and permit the water to empty into the hose.
Eradicating Sediment
As soon as the tank is drained, you’ll be able to take away sediment from the underside. If the sediment is unfastened, you should utilize a moist/dry vacuum to take away it. If the sediment is caked on, you should utilize a putty knife or spoon to scrape it off. Watch out to not harm the tank’s lining when scraping off sediment.
Eradicating Lime Scale
Should you stay in an space with exhausting water, your water heater could have lime scale buildup. Lime scale is a white, chalky deposit that may scale back the effectivity of your water heater. You’ll be able to take away lime scale through the use of a industrial descaling product, following the producer’s directions.
Flushing the Tank
Upon getting eliminated the sediment and lime scale, flush the tank with clear water. Activate the water provide to the water heater and open a scorching water faucet to permit water to circulation via the tank and out the drain hose. Proceed flushing the tank till the water runs clear, this may increasingly take a number of minutes.
Closing the Drain Valve
As soon as the tank is flushed, shut the drain valve and disconnect the backyard hose. Activate the water provide to the water heater and open a scorching water faucet to permit the tank to fill with water. Test for leaks across the drain valve and tighten it if needed.
Closing the Drain Valve
As soon as the water has fully drained from the tank, it is time to shut the drain valve. This can be a easy course of, however it’s necessary to do it rigorously to keep away from leaks:
- Find the drain valve on the backside of the water heater.
- Flip the valve clockwise with a wrench or pliers till it’s hand-tight.
- Don’t overtighten the valve, as this could harm the valve or the tank.
- As soon as the valve is closed, test for any leaks by working water into the tank and in search of any drips or streams of water.
- Should you discover a leak, tighten the valve additional till the leak stops.
- As soon as the drain valve is closed and there aren’t any leaks, you’ll be able to proceed to the subsequent step.
Suggestions for Closing the Drain Valve:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a wrench or pliers to shut the valve. | This can offer you extra leverage and management. |
| Shut the valve hand-tight. | Don’t overtighten the valve, as this could harm the valve or the tank. |
| Test for leaks after closing the valve. | Run water into the tank and search for any drips or streams of water. |
Refilling the Scorching Water Heater
9. **Flip the chilly water provide again on slowly**. Open the valve step by step to keep away from water hammer, which might harm the pipes.
10. **Open a scorching water faucet**. This can enable air to flee from the system because the water fills the tank.
11. **Test for leaks**. Examine the water heater and all connections for leaks. Tighten any unfastened fittings as wanted.
12. **Monitor the water temperature**. As soon as the tank is full, the water temperature will begin to rise. Use a thermometer to observe the temperature and be certain that it reaches the specified setting.
13. **Flip off the new water faucet**. As soon as the water temperature reaches the specified setting, flip off the new water faucet.
14. **Shut the drain valve**. As soon as the tank is full, shut the drain valve tightly.
15. **Reset the circuit breaker or fuse**. If the circuit breaker or fuse tripped through the draining course of, reset it to revive energy to the water heater.
16. **Flip the water heater again on**. Set the water heater to the specified temperature and switch it on.
17. **Enable the water heater to warmth up**. It might take a number of hours for the water heater to succeed in the specified temperature.
18. **Take pleasure in your scorching water!** As soon as the water heater is heated up, you’ll be able to get pleasure from your scorching water as standard.
Resetting the Energy and Water Provide
As soon as the water heater has been drained, you will need to reset the facility and water provide. This can be certain that the water heater is working correctly and that there aren’t any leaks.
-
Resetting the Energy
To reset the facility, merely flip off the circuit breaker or fuse that provides energy to the water heater. Wait a couple of minutes, then flip the facility again on.
-
Resetting the Water Provide
To reset the water provide, merely flip off the principle water valve. Wait a couple of minutes, then flip the water again on.
After the facility and water provide have been reset, test for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the connections or name a plumber.
Checking for Leaks
As soon as the water heater has been drained and the facility and water provide have been reset, you will need to test for leaks. To do that, merely activate the water heater and wait a couple of minutes. Then, test for any water leaks across the base of the water heater, the connections, and the drain valve. If there are any leaks, tighten the connections or name a plumber.
| Connection | Tighten |
|---|---|
| Inlet and outlet pipes | Use a wrench to tighten the nuts |
| Drain valve | Use a screwdriver to tighten the screw |
| Stress reduction valve | Don’t try to tighten the stress reduction valve. Whether it is leaking, it must be changed |
Drain My Scorching Water Heater
Draining your scorching water heater is a vital a part of sustaining your water heater and guaranteeing its longevity. It removes sediment and mineral buildup that may accumulate over time, which might scale back the effectivity and lifespan of the heater. This is a step-by-step information on the way to drain your scorching water heater:
- Security first: Flip off the facility to the water heater on the breaker panel. Shut the chilly water provide valve to the water heater.
- Connect a hose: Join a backyard hose to the drain valve on the backside of the water heater. Place the opposite finish of the hose in a bucket or drain.
- Open the drain valve: Slowly open the drain valve by turning it counterclockwise. Watch out, as scorching water will begin flowing out of the hose.
- Drain the water: Let the water drain fully. This may increasingly take a number of hours, relying on the scale of the water heater.
- Shut the drain valve: As soon as the water has stopped flowing, shut the drain valve by turning it clockwise.
- Open the chilly water provide valve: Slowly open the chilly water provide valve to the water heater. This can fill the water heater with contemporary water.
- Activate the facility: Flip the facility to the water heater again on on the breaker panel. The water heater will begin heating the water.
Individuals additionally ask
How usually ought to I drain my scorching water heater?
It is really helpful to empty your scorching water heater a few times a yr, or extra usually when you’ve got exhausting water.
What are the indicators that my scorching water heater must be drained?
Should you discover any of the next indicators, it is time to drain your scorching water heater:
- Lowered scorching water output
- Water heater making noises
- Sediment buildup on the backside of the heater
- Rust or corrosion on the heater
Can I drain my scorching water heater on my own?
Sure, it is potential to empty your scorching water heater your self by following the steps outlined above. Nevertheless, if you happen to’re not comfy doing so, it is best to name knowledgeable plumber.
