Water heaters are some of the most important installations in any home. They work throughout the year to provide warm water for bathing, cooking, cleaning, and more. Flushing is one of the most efficient ways to maintain a water heater.
This guide will examine the benefits of flushing a water heater.
WHAT DOES FLUSHING A WATER HEATER MEAN?
Flushing a water heater means draining the tank of water. To do this, a plumber will connect a hose to the tank’s base, close its input and open the output valves, and let water flow out and drain away.
It might sound simple, but it’s quite a complex process. Before any water can drain, shut off key components like the thermostat and gas connection to avoid any issues. That’s why it’s always best to call in the pros for water heater flushing.
CLEAR AWAY SEDIMENT AND MINERALS
In terms of why flushing is done, one of the most significant reasons is to drain the tank of any sediment or mineral buildups. In areas with hard water, sediment and minerals like calcium and magnesium accumulate inside the tank.
If left untreated, those minerals and sediment can clog up the heater. This can interfere with the heater’s work, slowing it down and reducing efficiency. It also reduces the available hot water capacity, making it likelier to run out of water with heavier use. Flushing it helps to wash away all those unwanted elements.
LOWER ENERGY BILLS
A water heater that has gone without flushing for a long time is more likely to experience operational difficulties. It might take longer to heat up, for example, using much more energy to get the water to the desired temperature for somebody to shower.
And, if more energy gets consumed, the homeowner will face a bigger bill at the end of the month. By flushing the tank and improving the heater’s efficiency, homeowners can save a lot on their utility bills.
REDUCE THE RISK OF HOUSEHOLD DISASTERS
When heaters aren’t flushed for long, lots of sediment can build up inside them. And that won’t just interfere with the heater’s efficiency. It can also lead to severe safety risks. One of the worst possible cases is when the sediment starts to block the heater’s pressure relief valve.
The pressure relief valve prevents disasters by releasing water from the tank when pressure levels get too high. If it gets blocked and stops working, pressure can keep rising in the tank. That could eventually cause the tank to burst, flood the home, and cause a serious disaster for the homeowner.
CONTACT THE PROS FOR REGULAR WATER HEATER FLUSHING
All in all, there are lots of benefits of water heater flushing and no real downsides whatsoever. Getting a heater flushed regularly can save money, improve safety, and help heaters last longer. Contact a trusted plumber to schedule your heater’s next flush.
Water Heater Pros provides water heater installation and replacement services for Las Vegas and surrounding area residents and businesses. Our expert technicians install both traditional and tankless water heaters for homes and other buildings with gas or electric service. We offer the highest quality installers for efficient, versatile water heaters such as Rheem. Ruud, high-efficiency tankless Navien units, and more. Ask about our installation specials.