At Upper Arlington Plumbing & Drain, we get it – keeping your water heater in top shape is key for its longevity and efficiency. Yet, one vital maintenance step homeowners tend to miss is flushing the water heater tank. So, when’s the best time for this task, and just how often should you do it? These are awesome questions, of which we have answers to. So, let’s explore the specifics of this particular water heater maintenance task together!
Do You Know the Reasons Why You Should Flush Your Water Heater’s Tank?
When minerals build up in your water heater over time, they harden into solid deposits known as sediment. The sediment then creates a barrier lining the side and base of the tank’s interior. This sediment barrier negatively affects the water heater’s efficiency, but keep in mind this occurrence is totally normal, and there’s not really a way around it given to the minerals in the water. When sediment buildup takes place, it can lead to increased energy usage, slower water heating, and potential damage to the unit. As a result, regularly flushing the tank removes these sediments and is the best course of action and preventative care. (Bear in mind that the harder your water is, the more frequently you may need to flush your water heater tank.)
Do You Know the Seasons When You Should Flush Your Water Heater’s Tank?
The ideal seasons to flush your water heater are spring and fall. This lines up with water usage and when most homes use less hot water.
- Why spring? Spring brings milder temps, so your hot water needs usually go down. It’s a good time to get your water heater ready for more use in the summer. Flushing it in spring helps it run better when you need it most.
- Why fall? Fall is actually a great time to flush your water heater as well. Just like you get your home ready for the chilly months ahead, your water heater needs some love too. By flushing it in the fall, you’re making sure there’s no buildup before it kicks into high gear for winter hot water duty.
If you can’t manage bi-annual water heater servicing, aim for a yearly flush instead. If your water heater needs a flush, mark it on your calendar to book one soon. We’re here to help!
Do You Know the Signs Indicating That You Should Flush Your Water Heater’s Tank?
Aside from the seasonal angle, there are some signs that could signal it’s time to flush your water heater in between your regular flushes.
- Odd Noises – One clue that it’s time to flush your water heater is if you start hearing odd sounds like popping, rumbling, or crackling. These noises happen when the heating elements have to work extra hard due to sediment build-up.
- Color Changes – If the water from your taps looks off-color, it might mean there’s rust and sediment in your tank. Flushing it out can clear out these impurities, so you get clean, fresh water at home.
- Temperature Inconsistency – If your hot water is disappearing faster than usual, it could be due to sediment taking up space in the tank and insulating the water from the heater’s elements. This means less hot water available and might signal it’s time for a flush.
Regularly flushing your water heater can really help it last longer and work better. As discussed, you should plan to do this maintenance task in spring or fall when you use less hot water. Remember to keep an eye out for signs that it needs a flush to keep your water heater in top shape. Lastly, while many can handle the job of flushing a water heater themselves, hiring a professional can give you peace of mind and ensure it’s done safely and well.
So, if you’re in need of a water heater flush, what are you waiting for? Call Upper Arlington Plumbing & Drain today at (614) 363-1924, or schedule an appointment by clicking here!