Will draining a water heater damage it?

Author: Sherwood Moen PhD  |  Last update: Friday, October 10, 2025

You can drain your tank water heater yourself with just a garden hose, flathead screwdriver, a bucket, and some time. Draining your water heater minimizes sediment buildup. This buildup can damage your water heater over time, so it's good to get rid of it.

Can you damage a hot water heater by draining it?

It's important to shut off the power to your water heater before draining it, or you could potentially burn out the heating elements. If you have an electric water heater, shut the power off from your home's electrical panel. The correct fuse or circuit breaker should be labeled as being connected to the water heater.

Should I flush a 7 year old water heater?

If neither you nor a professional have flushed your water within the last five years, Water Heaters Now recommends not flushing it yourself.

Is it okay to leave a water heater empty?

there is a danger of leaving it on. if you have it on and connect to an electric source and the heater tank is empty you will burn out the electric heating element in a matter of seconds. that element is immersed in the water and it needs to water to absorb the heat it produces. with the water that element will burn up ...

Is it better to flush or drain your water heater?

It is recommended that you flush your water heater at least once per year. Doing so will help to prevent the potential problems that sediment can bring over time. Typically, it takes one to two hours to flush a water heater. The size of your tank will impact the amount of time it takes to drain.

Common Water Heater Myths Answered | Ask This Old House

What happens if you don't flush your water heater?

Accordingly, when the water heater is not flushed, the built-up sediment hampers the functioning and performance of the heater and also damages the heater and your plumbing system.

What to do after you drain your water heater?

Once all the water is drained, keep the hose in the drain valve and turn the cold water valve at the top of the tank back on to begin the flushing process. The new water running through the tank should flush out any remaining sediment. Keep the valve turned on until the water from the hose runs clear.

Do you need to turn off water heater before draining?

Step 1: Turn Off the Power Supply or Gas Line

Ideally, you should turn your water heater off for a few hours before draining the tank.

How long does it take to drain a 50 gallon water heater?

How Long Does It Take to Drain a 50-Gallon Water Heater? Draining a 50-gallon water heater for larger units usually takes 45 to 60 minutes. However, it's worth noting that these are approximations, and the actual time can vary.

How do I know if my water heater needs to be flushed?

Keep an eye out for debris suddenly showing up in your water. If you notice sediment or any brown sludge coming out of your faucet, that's probably an indication that it's time for a water heater flush. If you see any of these signs, it's a good indication that your water heater needs maintenance.

Is it ever too late to drain a water heater?

NOTE: If your water heater has been installed more than five years without any maintenance, it may be too late to flush. If the tank will not drain, sediment likely has built and clogged the drain.

How to tell if your hot water heater is full of sediment?

Common signs that sediment buildup is significant include bubbling and gurgling sounds and diminished hot water when bathing, cooking, or cleaning. You may also notice water discoloration, a leaking pressure relief valve, or cracks in the tank or its connections.

Is a 20 year old water heater safe?

If your tank water heater is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it. With proper maintenance, a tank water heater tank should last six to 12 years. A tankless water heater can last for more than 20 years. Check your water heater's warranty for the most accurate timelines.

Do I need to open a faucet when draining a water heater?

Opening a hot water faucet will help the water heater drain faster. Some drain valves may be opened with a handle but others require a flat blade screwdriver. Let the water heater drain completely.

Can I use a garden hose to drain my water heater?

Connect a garden hose to the drain valve. Run the end of the garden hose to an exterior location or into a bucket to catch the water and sediment that will be released. Flush the water heater tank briefly while the water pressure is on. Open the drain valve for a few seconds and then close it again.

How long can a hot water heater go without water?

In fact, most water heaters' heating elements will only last a few hours or even minutes without water. Operating a water heater without water leads to rapid overheating and damage to the heating element, significantly shortening its lifespan.

Do you open the pressure relief valve when draining a water heater?

While draining the tank, keep the pressure relief valve open. This allows air to enter the tank, facilitating a smoother and faster draining process. It also prevents a vacuum from forming inside the tank, keeping the water flowing consistently and preventing potential damage to the tank structure.

How much does it cost to flush a hot water heater?

Expect a pro to charge you between $75 and $200 to come to your home to flush your water heater, depending on where you live. While this cost deters many homeowners from performing this annual maintenance, it can extend the water heater's lifespan by years, making it worth the additional cost.

What is the life expectancy of a 50 gallon hot water heater?

While today's water heaters are better designed than older models, they still require regular maintenance in order to prolong their lives. With regular inspection, draining, and flushing, you can expect a gas water heater to last anywhere from 8-12 years and an electric water heater to last anywhere from 10-15 years.

Is it bad to drain water heater?

Should you drain your hot water heater every year? Yes, but that's really just the bare minimum. You should really drain and flush your water heater twice-per-year: once in the spring, and then again in the fall. The reason why comes back to what a water heater is flushing out: minerals and sediment.

Will turning off water damage water heater?

Well-maintained traditional gas and electric hot water heaters can last 8-12 years, or more, before it's time for a hot water heater repair or replacement. Turning off your unit while you'll be away— or anytime your main water supply is off— is a good way to prolong the life of your system.

Can you flush a water heater without turning it off?

Depending on your water heater, you may require to either shut off your gas or cut off electricity. It is essential to shut off your gas to ensure that the water is cold when you drain it and to reduce any chance of a gas leak.

Does water heater need to be completely drained?

Draining your hot water tank removes sediment buildup, helping your water heater perform more efficiently, which can save you money. If the tank isn't annually drained, a hot water heater won't last as long, and the water may heat more slowly.

How often should I change the anode rod in my water heater?

The frequency of anode rod replacement depends on several factors, such as water quality, usage patterns, and the type of anode rod installed. In most cases, we recommend inspecting and potentially replacing the anode rod every 3 to 5 years.

Why is sediment not draining from my water heater?

If you're not so fortunate, and are experiencing issues where the tank won't drain there's a good chance the drain valve is clogged or blocked. This usually comes as a result of sediment from inside the tank blocking the valve, or as a result of calcium buildup on or around the drain valve.

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