How to Drain Your Water Heater and Why
A hot water heater is one of the most used appliances in your Sterling home, but it also is among the most frequently overlooked home appliances. Most hot water heaters are located in an out of the way location in the home, and you may not give the appliance a second thought until something goes wrong and the unit requires repair work. However, annual maintenance on the hot water heater is important for its condition and for your health and well-being. The main service project to complete is draining your hot water heater.
Why Do You Need to Drain Your Hot Water Heater?
A hot water heater often accumulates sediment in the tank. The sediment can build up over time, and this can cause issues with the heater itself as well as with your pipes and other plumbing fixtures.
In addition, bacteria can grow, and this can make your water smell bad and be unhealthy to be exposed to. Draining the tank periodically is a great way to remove the sediment as well as potential bacteria that may be growing in the water and in the tank.
How to Drain Your Hot Water Heater
Draining the tank requires some time and effort, but you will not need special tools in most cases. First, you will turn off the main water supply and energy supply to the unit. Second, you will attach a hose to the spigot at the bottom of the tank. Then, you will turn the valve for the spigot, and the hose should carry the water out of the home without causing a mess for you. After the water has been removed, turn the valve off, and remove the hose. Then, you can turn the main water supply and energy supply to the tank back on. Keep in mind that this process is recommended annually.
Call for Professional Assistance
Draining your hot water heater is a great way to keep your system well maintained, but there are other aspects of the hot water heater that also may be inspected annually for the best results. For example, the connections for electricity and water may be inspected to determine that there is not a leak present.
If you are ready to set up service for maintenance on your Sterling, VA hot water heater, contact Cardinal Plumbing, Heating & Air Inc. today at 703-721-8888. We will respond quickly to provide you with the water heater service your home needs.
