How to Maintain a Hot Water Heater
Over time, your hot water heater builds up sediments. Because you count on your water heater to have hot water ready for household chores and bathing, it needs to function efficiently. Routine maintenance will keep it sediment free. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Turn down the temperature to the tank and wait two to three hours.
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2
Turn off the electricity to your hot water heater. If it is a gas hot water heater, turn the gas to pilot.
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3
Turn off the cold water source going to the water heater.
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4
Wearing gloves and safety goggles, connect your water hose to the drain valve, which should be easily accessible.
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5
Place the other end of the hose near a drain or gutter.
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6
Open the pressure relief valve. Open the drain valve and completely drain the tank. Turn the cold water to the tank off and on until the water runs out clear. This completely removes sediment that builds up in the tank.
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7
Close the drain valve. Then disconnect the water hose.
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8
Close the pressure relief valve.
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9
Turn on the hot water at every spigot in your house and turn on the cold water to the hot water heater.
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10
Turn off the hot water spigots once water flows from each of them. When all hot water spigots are off, turn on electricity or turn the gas switch back on to run the hot water heater.
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Repeat every six months.
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Tips & Warnings
Use caution because the water can still be hot.
