Why Flushing Your Water Heater Matters
If your hot water isn’t lasting as long as it used to, sediment might be the reason. Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium build up inside your tank. Tucson’s hard water makes this happen faster than in most areas.
Learning how to flush a water heater tank helps remove that buildup and keeps your system running efficiently.
At Trusted Water Heaters, we help homeowners maintain their systems with simple steps that prevent breakdowns and extend the life of their heaters. Flushing your tank once a year can improve efficiency, reduce noise, and lower energy costs.
How to Flush a Water Heater Tank Step-by-Step
Before you begin, always turn off power and water to the heater. Safety comes first.
Step 1: Turn Off Power and Water Supply
- Electric heaters: Switch off the breaker labeled “Water Heater.”
- Gas heaters: Turn the thermostat to “Pilot” or “Off.”
Next, close the cold-water shutoff valve at the top of the tank.
Step 2: Connect a Garden Hose
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve located near the bottom of your water heater. Run the other end to a floor drain, driveway, or safe outdoor area.
Step 3: Open the Drain Valve
Turn on a hot-water faucet in your home (like a sink) to prevent a vacuum from forming. Then open the tank’s drain valve.
You’ll see hot, sometimes cloudy water flow through the hose — that’s sediment leaving your system.
Step 4: Flush the Tank
Once the tank is empty, open the cold-water supply valve briefly to stir up any leftover debris. Let that water drain until it runs clear.
Repeat this step two or three times for a complete flush.
Step 5: Refill and Restart
Close the drain valve tightly and remove the hose. Reopen the cold-water valve and allow the tank to fill completely.
After that, restore power or gas and wait 30–60 minutes for the water to heat back up.
How Often Should You Flush Your Water Heater?
In Tucson, where the water is naturally hard, aim to flush your tank every 6–12 months.
If you notice these warning signs, it’s time to flush or call a professional:
- Popping or rumbling noises
- Rust-colored or cloudy hot water
- Slower heating or inconsistent temperatures
- Water pooling around the base of your heater
Ignoring these signs can shorten your water heater’s lifespan and increase your energy bills.
Pro Tip: Add a Water Heater Pan
While you’re maintaining your system, check if you have a water heater pan installed.
A pan catches leaks and overflows — protecting your floors, garage, or closet.
They’re inexpensive and required by code in many homes, especially if your heater is located on an upper level.
When to Call a Professional
If you try flushing and the valve is clogged, leaking, or won’t open, don’t force it.
At Trusted Water Heaters Tucson, we can safely drain and flush your tank, inspect the anode rod, and check for corrosion — all in one quick visit.
We also offer same-day replacements with our Hot Water Today Guarantee:
If we can’t restore your hot water today, you don’t pay a dime.
Protect Your Investment
Learning how to flush a water heater tank is one of the simplest ways to save money and prevent early failure.
For expert help or regular maintenance, contact Trusted Water Heaters today.
We proudly serve Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana with fast, honest service — and unbeatable guarantees.
đź“ž Call 520-844-9888 or Text 520-719-0349
Because you deserve Hot Water Today – Guaranteed!