Regularly cleaning your water heater ensures it operates efficiently during spring’s increased water usage. It includes flushing and routine maintenance, which are key to keeping your unit in top condition. Here are the steps a plumber will implement for an effective cleaning process, hence the reason it is critical to schedule regular professional maintenance.
Turning Off the Power or Gas Supply
If you have a gas water heater, the plumber will turn the gas valve to the “pilot” position, and if it’s an electric model, they will switch off the power at the breaker.
Connecting a Garden Hose to the Drain Valve
The drain valve is near the bottom of the tank. A professional attaches a garden hose to it and directs the other end of the hose to a bucket or a floor drain.
Draining the Hot Water Tank
Draining the tank can take between 20 and 60 minutes. The plumber will carefully open the drain valve to avoid burns. Also, they will open all the hot water faucets in your home to let air into the system and keep the water flowing smoothly.
Getting Rid of the Remaining Sediment
Once the tank is empty, your plumber will briefly open the water supply valve to let in a small amount of water. When the water gets into the tank, it will stir up the remaining sediment and help flush it out. The plumber will repeat this process three to four times or until the water flowing from the hose is clear.
Closing the Drain Valve
The plumber will close the drain, remove the garden hose, and refill the tank. When water starts to flow from the faucets they opened earlier, they will close them, too.
Checking the Drain Valve for Leaks
If the plumber notices any leaks, sediment may be blocking the seal. Needless to say, your plumber will try opening and closing the drain valve a few times to clear any present sediment.
Turning the Heater Back On
Professionals turn on the heater control once they are certain there are no leaks. If you have a gas water heater, the plumber will set the gas valve to its original position, but if it’s electric, they will switch the power back on.
Essential Cleaning Tips for a Tankless Water Heater
The approach for cleaning tankless water heaters is slightly different since they don’t store water. Instead, they heat water on demand, causing sediment and minerals to build up in the heat exchanger. If you own a tankless system, the plumber will start by turning off the power or gas supply to the unit.
Next, they will circulate a cleaning solution through the heat exchanger using a bucket, hoses, and a submersible pump. Experts use either a specialized water heater cleaner or vinegar as their cleaning solution. Once the cleaning solution has circulated, your plumber will flush the unit with fresh water before turning it back on.
When you maintain your water heater, it continues to work for you for years to come. Don’t let a cold bath or shower remind you. For expert water heater repair and replacement in Farmington, ME, call A-1 Plumbing and Heating today for professional service.
