Flushing out your hot water system every 6 months helps remove built-up rust and sediment to keep it running efficiently. Simply turn off the power and water, attach a hose to the drain valve, then open the valve to flush. We explain the full steps to clean tanks and tankless systems.
Regular maintenance of your hot water system, including sediment removal, is crucial for optimal performance and durability. Accumulation of sediment hampers heat transfer, significantly reducing the system’s efficiency. A thorough flush of the system not only boosts its heating function but also leads to prompt availability of hot water and energy savings.
Descaling also extends the life of your water heater’s components by preventing premature failures or corrosion. Unchecked sediment accumulation strains components, potentially causing cracks or leaks. Annual descaling helps remove this harmful buildup.
Some sediment like limescale is corrosive and can damage valves or controls. Flushing the system minimises component exposure to corrosive chemicals. Catching and preventing sediment issues early on with regular maintenance checks can save you money on repairs down the road.
It’s crucial to notice signs that indicate your water heater requires cleaning or descaling due to sediment or limescale:
Addressing sediment build-up promptly through annual descaling avoids aggravation of issues, boosts system efficiency, and averts expensive repairs in the long run.
Before you begin the cleaning process for your water heater, gather the following materials:
You’ll need to shut off access to the drain valve, often found at the bottom of the tank. Identify your tank’s drain plug or exterior threaded spigot to connect your hose. Ensure you know the proper method for shutting off power and water valves during cleaning.
Preparing all required equipment in advance streamlines the water heater flushing process. For support, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified plumber.
Start by switching off power to your hot water system at the circuit breaker. For your electric water heater, it’s crucial to confirm that the electricity supply is completely switched off prior to starting maintenance. Double check that the pilot light is off if applicable.
Locate the main cold water valve entering your home and turn it clockwise to turn off water to the ‘off’ position. Finally, turn cold water off at the hot tap at your kitchen sink.
Attach a garden hose to the tank’s bottom valve and lead the hose end into a bucket or an appropriate area for drainage. Make sure the hose can adequately reach your drain location before the heater flush can start.
Position the bucket below the hose to catch initial water discharge. Gently open the drain valve using an adjustable wrench and ensure all additional valves, including the TPR valve on top, are open for a comprehensive flush.
Completely empty the tank by conducting a detailed water heater flush to confirm there are no leaks, ensuring the system delivers clean hot water. Sediment can flush out, which ensures your water heater is clean post-maintenance. Use a flashlight to inspect inside the tank after draining so you can see any remaining sediment you may need turn attention to.
If residue remains, eliminate it by gently scrubbing with a small brush dipped in white vinegar. Avoid using chemical cleaners. Rinse the tank to clean your water from your hose once descaling is complete.
Close all drain valves and perform a final flush to relieve pressure. Once water stops flowing, detach the hose and gradually restore the main water supply. Fill the tank, concurrently opening hot water taps to expel any trapped air.
Double check that all valves are closed, Then turn back on the power, not forgetting to turn off gas if it was previously in use. Adjust thermostats and test water temperature at taps. Inspect and test your anode rod and flush annually.
The first step in cleaning your hot water system is safely turning everything off. Start by switching off power to your hot water system at the circuit breaker. Turn the circuit to the 'off’ position.
If you have a gas hot water system, turn the gas control valve clockwise to the off position and turn the temperature dial counterclockwise. Make sure the pilot light is completely out if your system has one.
Next, shut off the main water valve leading into your home. This cold water supply valve, typically located near your water metre, can be turned valve off using pliers. Use a pair of channel lock pliers to turn the valve clockwise until it is fully closed.
Turn off the hot water tap at your kitchen sink. Make sure no water is flowing from any hot water tap before proceeding.
After shutting off all power and water, you’re set to connect hoses and open valves for a safe and thorough heater flush.
Once the hot water system is powered off and the water supply shut off, you can begin To drain the tank, find the drain valve at the bottom to commence the flush.
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve’s spigot, directing the other end into a bucket to capture the initial discharge. Carefully open the drain valve with a wrench, directing the water into the bucket or a designated drainage spot.
Fully open any other valves on your tank like the temperature pressure relief valve to allow water to exit unobstructed. This allows air to enter and facilitates flushing water out of your system more quickly. Sediment and deposits will flush through the open valves.
If faced with persistent sediment, clean the tank internally using a soft brush soaked in vinegar; avoid abrasive chemicals. Rinse thoroughly to remove any vinegar traces with clean water.
Post-drainage, use a flashlight to inspect the tank’s interior for residual sediment or mineral build-up. If you see deposits that looks like they require how clean your extra effort, use a soft brush and white vinegar to gently wipe them away. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
With the drain valve still open, Attach a garden hose into your hot water tank’s cold water inlet spigot. Turn on to flush water through for 5-10 minutes to ensure the system is rinsed. This will wash away any residual sediment from the descaling process, much like when you need flush my system.
Shut off your garden hose and disconnect the flushing hose. Close the drain valve and all other open valves on the tank. Relieve any leftover pressure by briefly opening your hot water taps.
Your system is now clean and ready to refill; having flushed your system, remember to do it annually to maximise efficiency and lifespan.
Once the tank has been flushed of sediment, you can begin refilling it to restore the flow hot water. Make sure all open drain valves are closed tightly before proceeding. Disconnect the garden hose from the drain spigot.
Slowly turn the main cold water supply back on to refill the tank, readying to turn hot water on after the process. Carefully check valves and connections for any leaks as tap water begins flowing back into the system. Once water should begin flowing steadily from the taps, allow all hot water to fully purge the air from the tank and pipes.
Once the tank is full, proceed to power on at the circuit breaker and gas valve if applicable, ensuring each step is double-checked. For gas heaters, relight the pilot light as needed and set the thermostat to the preferred temperature.
Test water flow and temperature at all hot taps, flushing each one until consistent temperature is reached. Your system should now be safely restarted, cleaned, and ready to efficiently deliver hot water again.
After cleaning your hot water system, follow these maintenance tips to ensure continued efficiency and extended lifespan.
Make sure all valves, particularly the relief valve, fully seal and close properly after flushing. Test that your thermostat and heating elements activate to heat water to the desired temperature.
Inspect your tank’s sacrificial anode, made from magnesium or aluminium, every two years. This rod draws corrosion away from the tank itself. Should it exhibit significant wear, it’s time for a replacement.
In areas with hard water, flush sediment and mineral deposits from your hot water system every six months to a year. To improve water quality and ensure a steady flow, consider installing a water softener to minimise sediment build-up between cleanings. Stay vigilant for any signs of sediment like rumbling noises or reduced efficiency.
Routine inspections and actions to maintain your water systems’ storage tank are key to optimal performance can prolong its service life substantially beyond standard expectancy.
Cleaning a hot water system is generally a manageable DIY task for many homeowners. However, if uncertain about the process or requiring guidance, enlist the services of a licensed plumber:
Should you face significant issues, such as difficulty finding specific valves or stubborn sediment that resists flushing, seek professional help. Incorrect draining techniques could result in leaks or pressure issues.
With gas water heaters, do not attempt to relight a pilot or adjust gas controls yourself. Leave gas work to qualified technicians to prevent dangerous gas leaks.
For tankless water heaters beyond their expected 6-10 years lifespan with excessive internal corrosion, consider replacement over DIY flushing.
Call West Pennant Hills Plumbing if descaling seems to worsen leaks, temperature control problems, rumbling noises or other existing issues. We’re available 24/7 at 1300 349 338 to schedule service or repairs.
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