How to Refill a Hot Water Heater

Draining and refilling your hot water heater once a year helps to remove sediment and particles that form on the bottom of the tank. These particles, if left in the hot water tank, can lead to corrosion on the inside of the tank. This can affect the quality of water and the longevity of the tank. To prevent costly repairs, drain and refill the hot water heater regularly.

Things You'll Need

• Garden hose
• Pliers

Instructions

1. Find the fuse panel in your home and turn off the fuse responsible for the operation of the hot water heater. On a gas heater, turn off the gas supply. This allows you to work safely on and around the hot water heater.

2. Use your hand to close off the water intake valve on the hot water tank. Screw one end of the garden hose onto the drain cock on the bottom of the tank. Place the other end of the hose somewhere safe to drain the hot water.

3. Use pliers to open the drain cock valve and allow the water to drain out. Let the tank completely empty before you close the drain cock valve. You can now remove the garden hose from the heater.

4. Reset the fuse for the hot water heater, turning it on. Turn the gas back on if you have a gas unit. Using you hand, reopen the hot water valve on the water intake and allow the tank to fill. This completes the hot water tank refill.