How Annual Flushing Extends the Life of Your Water Heater
Posted in Hot Water Heater Repairs , on August 08, 2025
Your water heater is one of those appliances that many homeowners overlook, but then miss dearly once it is not working correctly. Although a damaged water heater may seem unlikely, the sheer inconvenience of a broken heater is enough to warrant maintenance efforts that can help prevent failures. The average person likely doesn’t invest any time into water heater repair or maintenance, even though something as simple as an annual flushing can make all the difference. A simple water tank flush can help you avoid the need for a professional plumber in Boca Raton down the line. If you are lacking hot water and require water heater repairs, contact Broward Plumbing as soon as possible.
Here is a breakdown of how flushing your water heater tank can extend the life of your device.
Why Sediment Buildup Happens
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One common reason for water heater failure is excess sediment buildup. Sediment is a buildup of naturally occurring minerals found in water. It usually consists of magnesium and calcium. This buildup of minerals can collect at the bottom of your water tank, inhibiting performance. This is because sediment acts like an insulator that prevents the heat from transferring to the water. This leads to the heating element becoming overworked and eventually failing.
Consequences of Excess Sediment in Water Tank
- Reduced Heating Efficiency: It can take significantly longer for your water to heat up to the desired temperature. This can be highly inconvenient for cleaning and bathing.
- Increased Energy Bills: Sediment makes it harder for your water heater tank to heat up. It will then use more energy to reach the desired temperature, leading to higher energy bills.
- Rumbling or Popping Noises: Sediment can float around your tank while it is on, clanking around the walls, resulting in rumbling or popping noises.
- Corrosion: Excess sediment can also lead to accelerated tank corrosion.
How to Flush a Water Heater
Flushing your water heater tank once or twice a year can help clear out any sediment and extend the useful life of your water heater. Here are the steps you can take:
- Turn off the power to your water heater along with the water and gas supply.
- Wait for the tank to cool for a few hours. Do not proceed until it is cool enough to touch comfortably.
- Attach a garden hose to the drain valve of the tank and ensure that the other end is directed outdoors or into a bathtub where it can drain.
- Turn on the hot water in a sink on the main floor of your home.
- Open the hot water tank’s drain valve and let the water drain out for up to an hour.
- Turn on the cold water valve a few times simultaneously so that any residual sediment is collected.
- Drain your tank again and repeat the whole process until your water runs clear.
If you struggle to drain your tank or do not have the expertise needed to do so, contact a plumber in Boca Raton for water heater repair and service!
Rely on Broward Plumbing for Water Heater Repair
If you want to extend the life of your water heater, you will need to ensure that you have a regular water heater maintenance routine. One of the best things you can do for your water heater is drain it annually. This will help clear out any sediment, which poses a threat to your water heater. If you are struggling with your water heater, contact Broward Plumbing’s plumbers in Boca Raton for water heater repair today!