How Often To Flush Your Water Heater’s Tank

How often you should flush the hot water tank depends on several factors, including the size of the tank, the number of people in the household, and how hard your water is.

Here is a general guide for how often you should flush your tank:

• One- or two-person household: Inspect the water heater every six months and flush the tank every 12 months.
• Three- or five-person household: Inspect the water heater every four months and drain the tank every eight months.
• Six or more person household: Inspect the water heater every four months and drain the tank every six months.

Why Do Water Heaters Need To Be Flushed?

Are you noticing that your water heater isn’t heating as well as it should? One reason could be a buildup of sediment at the bottom of the tank.

If you have a tank-style gas or electric water heater, you can extend its life span by regularly flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup that can reduce heating efficiency and shorten the unit’s life span.

Sediment is caused by minerals in the water that accumulate at the bottom of the tank. Flushing the tank removes the buildup and helps the burner work more efficiently. It also reduces the likelihood that the bottom of the tank will develop corrosion and leaks.

Need help maintaining your water heater? Call Ostrom Electrical Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning. We can help with all your home plumbing maintenance needs.