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What To Do When Your Hot Water Heater Won't Drain?
Sunrise Plumbing and Water Filtration provide emergency plumbing services for your Florida home.
You know the importance of water heater maintenance. Now you are ready to drain the tank.
We applaud your dedication to being a responsible homeowner and keeping on top of important tasks.
You tried to drain the tank, but it wouldn't drain.
What is the problem?
Learn more below!
How to Drain a Water Heater
It is easy to drain a water heater tank if everything is in order.
First, shut off the power to your water heater. This is usually done through a breaker or switch located near the water heater. Once you've shut off the power, turn off the cold water supply that provides water to the tank. You may need to use a wrench or pliers to loosen the connection on either side of the valve. Finally, open up a hot faucet in your home so that any remaining pressure will be released before you begin draining your hot water heater.
The process is almost complete once the tank has been emptied and cold water is flowing through. Allow the tank to fill up by closing the drain valve as well as the pressure relief valve. If you have a gas or electric system, turn on the power and then relight your pilot light.
Give yourself a pat on the back!
How to Unclog a Water Heater Drain Valve
If your tank isn't draining, it's possible that the drain valve has become blocked or clogged. It is usually caused by sediment buildup around the drain valve or from the tank.
What can you do to unclog your drain?
There are many options available depending on your particular situation.
- Take it slow: If the clog seems minor, you may need to wait for the pressure to release from the water and sediment to drain the tank. If the tank doesn't drain within an hour, it's likely that you have a more serious problem.
- Use a Coat Hanger: While they are designed to hang clothes, wire coat hangers can also be used to remove clogs. The drain valve should be opened and the wire must be inserted into the tank. To loosen any sediment or debris that might have built up around the drain, move it around.
- Drain-Flush: The idea is to use water to remove sediment from the drain valve so that the tank can drain naturally. Fill the hose with water and attach it to a male connector. Attach one end of the water hose to the drain valve. Then attach the other end to a nearby faucet. After the faucet is turned on, open the drain valve and allow water to flow into it for approximately 10 seconds. Turn off the faucet and close the drain valve. Finally, disconnect the hose. Next, follow the normal drainage procedures.
If that doesn't resolve the problem, you might need the expertise and skill of a skilled plumber. Or perhaps the drain valve is faulty and needs to be replaced. Don't lose heart in either case! Failure to remove the sediment regularly can lead to major problems, including additional wear and tear to the tank. This could mean that you need a new water heater long before you need to replace your current one. We're here to help, but don't panic!
Sunrise Plumbing and Water Filtration offer professional water heater repair and installation services in the greater Mosquito Coast area. All of our work is backed by a satisfaction guarantee, so you know you are getting top-notch plumbers and peace of mind. Call us today (941) 867-6787
