Why Learning How to Drain a Water Heater Matters
Knowing how to drain a water heater is one of the simplest ways homeowners can extend the life of their water heater, improve water quality, and maintain reliable hot water throughout the home. Over time, sediment from minerals and hard water settles inside the tank, affecting efficiency, water temperature, and even your monthly energy bills.
Routine water heater maintenance helps prevent premature water heater repair, keeps your water clean, and ensures your heater operates safely—whether you have a gas water heater or an electric water heater.
Before You Start: Safety & Preparation
Before beginning the draining process, gather the following:
- A standard garden hose (long enough to reach a floor drain or outside)
- Access to a hot water faucet or hot water tap
- Knowledge of whether you have a gas heater or electric heater
⚠️ Important safety steps:
- For an electric water heater, turn off power at the circuit breaker
- For a gas water heater, set the gas valve to “pilot” or turn off the gas supply
Allow hot water to cool slightly to avoid burns
Step-by-Step: How to Drain a Water Heater
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the cold water supply valve or cold water valve at the top of the water heater tank and close it. This stops fresh water from entering the water tank.
2. Relieve Pressure
Open a nearby hot water faucet to release pressure inside the tank. This allows the drain to flow smoothly and safely.
3. Attach the Hose
Connect a hose or garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the hot water tank. Run the hose to a floor drain or safe outdoor area.
4. Open the Drain Valve
Slowly begin the valve opening by turning the drain valve counterclockwise. Water and sediment will begin to drain from the tank.
5. Flush Until Clear
Once empty, briefly open the cold water supply to flush remaining debris. Continue until clear water flows, improving overall water quality and ensuring clean water inside the tank.
6. Close Valves and Refill
Close the drain valve, disconnect the hose, and open the water supply valve. Once the tank is full, turn the heater back on and restore power or gas burner operation.
Gas vs. Electric Water Heaters: What’s Different?
- Gas water heater: Involves a gas burner, gas supply, and gas valve
- Electric water heaters: Use an internal heating element powered through the circuit breaker
Both systems benefit equally from proper drain and sediment removal. Regular flushing protects components, reduces strain, and supports consistent hot water delivery.
What About Tankless Systems?
A tankless water heater or tankless water heaters operate differently and do not store water in a traditional tank. While they still require maintenance, how to drain a water heater mainly applies to storage-based systems. Tankless units often require professional descaling for optimal performance.
How Often Should You Drain Your Water Heater?
Most homeowners should drain their water heater once per year. Homes with hard water or without a water softener may need more frequent service to prevent buildup and protect internal components.
When to Call BDL Plumbing
While many homeowners can follow this guide on how to drain a water heater, there are times when professional help is the safer choice:
- Stuck or leaking drain valve
- Low hot water output after draining
- Signs of corrosion or poor water quality
- Concerns about pressure relief valve performance
- Rising energy bills without explanation
BDL Plumbing provides expert water heater repair, inspections, and full-service plumbing support—along with solutions that integrate seamlessly with air conditioning and whole-home systems.
Trust BDL Plumbing for Water Heater Service
Whether you need help draining a hot water heater, upgrading your system, or maintaining long-term performance, BDL Plumbing is here to help. Our experienced team ensures your water heater, tank, valve, and water supply components work safely and efficiently—so you never have to worry about losing hot water when you need it most.
👉 Need professional help? Contact BDL Plumbing today for trusted plumbing services and expert water heater care.
