A well-maintained water heater ensures comfort, energy efficiency, and reliable hot water in your home. One of the most important maintenance tasks? Flushing and draining the tank regularly.
Over time, sediment buildup inside the tank can reduce efficiency, slow heating, clog water lines, and even shorten your water heater’s lifespan. Here’s what you need to know to keep your water heater running smoothly.
🔁 How Often Should You Flush It?
🆕 New Water Heaters (With Filtration)
Flush once a year
Newer units with clean water sources need minimal maintenance.
🧓 Older Water Heaters
Flush every 6 months
Older systems or those without filtration require more frequent flushing.
💧 Hard Water Homes
Flush twice a year
Hard water leads to faster sediment buildup, so stick to a biannual schedule.
⚙️ Recommended Flushing Frequency by Water Heater Type
| Water Heater Type | Flushing Schedule |
|---|---|
| Storage (Tank) | Once a year; twice if older |
| Electric | Once a year (new); twice if old or hard water |
| Gas | Same as electric |
| Tankless | Not required, but annual service check recommended |
| Heat Pump | Once a year (new); every 6 months if issues arise |
❓ Do You Really Need to Flush It?
Yes. Flushing is critical for:
Removing sediment
Improving water heating times
Extending the lifespan of your unit
Boosting energy efficiency
Preventing rust and corrosion
🛠️ What’s Involved in a Professional Flush?
Though some homeowners DIY it, professional flushing ensures it’s done safely and thoroughly. Here’s how it works:
Turn off the heater
Power or gas supply is shut off; water is allowed to cool.Drain the tank
Water is drained through the spigot into a bucket or floor drain.Flush sediment
Fresh water is run through until it runs clear.Restart system
The tank is sealed, refilled, and turned back on.
💵 Cost: Expect to pay $75–$200 for a professional flush.
🧰 Water Heater Maintenance Tips
Set to vacation mode if leaving town
If water smells, raise the temp to 140°F briefly to kill bacteria
Check the anode rod every 2–3 years
Test the temperature-pressure release valve yearly
Look for leaks and tighten the drain valve if needed
Have tankless systems professionally inspected once a year
✅ Final Takeaway
Flushing your water heater—especially if it’s older or dealing with hard water—is one of the best ways to improve performance and extend its life. Whether you schedule it annually or every six months, don’t skip it.
Need help?
📞 Let Modernize connect you with a trusted local pro to flush or service your water heater today.