How Do You Empty a Water Heater?

It's not very often we give our water heaters much thought. Until, one day we turn on the hot water valve and cold water comes out. That's when the water heater gets our full attention. In order to fix the water heater, it will first have to be emptied. There are other reasons that we may want to empty the heater, like moving it to another location. Give yourself an hour or so and follow the safety practices to get the job done.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Empty a Hot Water Heater

1. Turn off the electric or gas source coming to the water heater. Turn off the water feed to the tank. The cold water inlet valve is located on the right side of the top of the tank.

2. Open a hot water faucet in the house. This will relieve the pressure in the tank. Leave the faucet open as it will allow air to flow back to the tank and help to completely empty it.

3. Attach a garden hose to the spigot on the tank. This will be on the bottom of the tank next to the thermostat control. Run the hose to a place where the hot water will not damage anything or hurt anyone.

4. Open the valve to the spigot and allow the water to completely drain. Give it time and make sure it is totally drained before opening it up to make repairs or moving it.

Tips & Warnings

• It is crucial that the electric or gas be turned off before starting to empty the tank. Not doing so can result in injury and can damage the water tank.