why is my water heater slow draining

Plumbing

The answer to 'why is my water heater slow draining' is that a slow draining water heater is often caused by a buildup of sediment at the bottom of the tank. As water heats up, minerals and other particles in the water can settle and accumulate, restricting the flow of water out of the tank.

Some common symptoms of a slow draining water heater include: water draining slowly when you open the drain valve, water taking longer to fill up the tank, and reduced hot water capacity. To fix this, you'll need to flush the water heater to remove the sediment buildup. This is a task that many homeowners can do themselves, but if you're not comfortable with it, it's best to call in a professional plumber.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    Turn off power/gas to the water heater

    Locate the circuit breaker or gas shut-off valve and turn off the power or gas supply to the water heater.

  2. 2

    Attach a garden hose to the drain valve

    Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater tank.

  3. 3

    Drain the tank

    Open the drain valve and allow the water to fully drain from the tank. This may take 30 minutes or more.

  4. 4

    Flush the tank

    Once drained, close the valve and turn the water supply back on to flush out any remaining sediment.

  5. 5

    Refill and restart the water heater

    Close the drain valve, remove the hose, and turn the power/gas back on to refill and reheat the tank.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I flush my water heater?

Most manufacturers recommend flushing your water heater every 6-12 months to remove sediment buildup.

What are the signs my water heater needs to be flushed?

In addition to slow draining, other signs include reduced hot water capacity, rumbling or popping noises from the tank, and discolored water.

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