How to Drain a Water Heater

Draining your water heater is needed for routine maintenance, flushing sediment, replacing parts, or shutting down your home. This step-by-step guide shows you how to do it safely.

When Do You Need to Drain a Water Heater?

• Annual flushing to remove sediment
• Replacing the anode rod, heating element, or thermostat
• Replacing the drain valve or T&P relief valve
• Moving or replacing the water heater
• Shutting down the home for an extended period

What You Will Need

Garden hose, flathead screwdriver or pliers, work gloves, and a bucket.

Flexzilla Garden Hose 50ft - lightweight and flexible, perfect for draining your water heater.

Rubbermaid 12-Quart Bucket - for catching the initial water flow and checking sediment.

Step 1: Turn Off the Heater

Electric: Switch off the circuit breaker. Gas: Turn the gas control knob to PILOT.

Step 2: Turn Off the Cold Water Supply

Find the cold water inlet valve at the top of the heater and turn it off.

Step 3: Let the Water Cool

Wait 1-2 hours. Water inside can be 120-140 degrees F.

Step 4: Connect a Garden Hose to the Drain Valve

The drain valve is near the bottom of the tank. Connect your hose and run the other end to a floor drain or outside.

Step 5: Open a Hot Water Faucet

Open a hot water tap in your home to break the vacuum and allow the tank to drain freely.

Step 6: Open the Drain Valve

Turn counterclockwise to open. Water may look rusty at first - this is normal sediment flushing out. Allow 20-45 minutes to drain fully.

Step 7: Flush Out Remaining Sediment

Briefly turn the cold water supply back on to flush remaining sediment until water runs clear.

Sediment Buster Water Heater Tool - breaks up stubborn sediment clogs from electric or gas water heaters.

Step 8: Close the Drain Valve and Refill

Close the drain valve, disconnect the hose, turn the cold water supply back on, and wait until water flows steadily from the open hot water faucet before closing it.

Step 9: Restore Power or Gas

Electric: Turn the breaker back on. Gas: Turn the knob from PILOT to your desired temperature. Allow 30-60 minutes to heat up.

Troubleshooting

If the drain valve is stuck, use pliers gently - do not force it. If it leaks after closing, schedule a valve replacement. Consider upgrading to a brass ball valve for easier future maintenance.

Annual Maintenance Tip

Check the anode rod while the tank is drained and replace if heavily corroded.

RV Water Heater Anode Rod 2-Pack - replace every 2-3 years to extend tank life.

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