How to Flush a Water Heater

Sediment settles at the bottom of every tank and insulates the burner. A yearly flush keeps efficiency up and prevents premature failure.

Common causes

• Hard water mineral deposits
• Skipping annual maintenance
• Anode rod not replaced on schedule
• No sediment trap at the inlet

Step-by-step

1. 01Turn off the gas (or breaker) and let water cool for 2 hours
2. 02Connect a hose to the drain valve and route to a floor drain
3. 03Close the cold-water inlet, open a hot tap upstairs, then open the drain valve
4. 04Flush until water runs clear, then refill before restoring power/gas

When to call Northbridge

• Drain valve is seized or leaks after closing
• Water still runs rusty after flushing
• You'd rather have annual maintenance handled for you
• Tank is 8+ years old and hasn't been serviced