How Often Should You Drain Your Water Heater in Salt Lake City?

Key takeaways for draining your water heater in Salt Lake City:

• Draining your water heater twice a year helps remove sediment buildup, which is particularly important in Salt Lake City due to the area's hard water.
• The buildup of mineral deposits can decrease your water heater’s efficiency, increase energy costs, and potentially lead to costly repairs or a premature replacement.
• While you can drain your own water heater, it's a messy and complex process. Our experienced plumbing technicians can handle the job for you, ensuring it's done correctly and safely.

The water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, providing hot water for everything from showers to laundry. But like any major appliance, it requires regular maintenance to function efficiently. In Salt Lake City, where hard water is a common issue, one of the most crucial maintenance tasks is draining your water heater.

Why Is Draining Your Water Heater So Important?

Salt Lake City’s water supply is known for being hard, meaning it contains a high concentration of dissolved minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. While these minerals aren't harmful to your health, they can cause major problems for your plumbing system, especially your water heater. As water is heated, these minerals separate and settle at the bottom of the tank, forming a rock-like sediment.

Over time, this sediment buildup can create several problems:

• Reduced Efficiency: The sediment acts as an insulator, creating a barrier between the heating element and the water. This forces the unit to work harder and longer to heat the water, leading to higher energy bills.
• Corrosion and Leaks: The sediment can also corrode the tank's lining, causing rust and eventually leading to leaks. A leaking tank can cause significant water damage and often necessitates the replacement of the entire appliance.
• Strange Noises: If you hear rumbling, popping, or crackling noises from your water heater, it’s a clear sign of significant sediment buildup. These sounds result from the water trying to boil through the layer of sediment at the bottom of the tank.

How Often Should You Drain Your Water Heater?

For most Salt Lake City homeowners, we recommend draining and flushing your water heater twice a year, especially if you have a household with high hot water usage or live in an area with particularly hard water. Watch our video to learn when to drain your water heater, and follow us on Instagram for more helpful tips and local events.

This maintenance schedule can prevent the problems mentioned above and extend the lifespan of your unit. You can also tell it’s time for a flush if you notice any of the following signs:

• Low Water Pressure: A buildup of sediment can restrict the flow, resulting in a noticeable drop in hot water pressure.
• Inconsistent Hot Water: If your hot water runs out faster than usual, or the temperature fluctuates, it could be a sign that sediment is affecting the heating process.
• Discolored Water: If your hot water has a reddish or brown tint, it's a sign of rust and corrosion inside the tank, often caused by sediment buildup.

Can You Drain a Water Heater Yourself?

While draining a water heater isn't a job for the faint of heart, it is a task that many homeowners choose to tackle themselves. However, it's essential to prepare for a messy and time-consuming process. If you're going to attempt this yourself, you'll need the right tools and a clear understanding of the process. This includes shutting off the gas or electricity, turning off the water supply, and having a hose long enough to direct the water away from your home's foundation.

When to Call a Plumber in Salt Lake City

If the thought of dealing with sediment-filled, murky water and complex plumbing connections isn't appealing, we're here to help. Our experienced plumbing technicians can perform a professional-grade flush and inspection to ensure your water heater is in top condition.

We have the tools and expertise to handle even the toughest sediment buildup and can also inspect your water heater for signs of corrosion, leaks, or other issues. Don't wait for a small problem to turn into a major emergency before calling a Salt Lake City plumber. Regular maintenance can save you money and headaches in the long run.

From routine maintenance to emergency water heater repair in Salt Lake City, our expert plumbers are ready to provide fast, reliable service. When you need a trusted and recommended Salt Lake City water heater repair service, look no further than Roto-Rooter. Contact our Salt Lake City plumbers today at 800-768-6911.

Frequently Asked Questions About Water Heater Maintenance

How does sediment buildup affect my water heater?

Sediment acts as an insulator at the bottom of the tank, forcing the heating element to work harder and longer to heat the water. This decreases your water heater’s efficiency and can lead to increased energy bills as well as potential damage to the unit.

Can I drain my water heater myself?

Yes, it is possible to drain your own water heater. The process requires you to turn off the power and water supply to the appliance, attach a hose to the drain valve, and flush the tank. However, it can be a complicated and messy process, so it's often best to call a professional for assistance.

How do I know if my water heater has sediment buildup?

Common signs of sediment buildup include strange rumbling, popping, or crackling noises coming from the tank, a drop in hot water pressure, or inconsistent water temperature. You may also notice discolored or rusty-looking water.

How much does it cost to have a professional drain my water heater?

The cost of having a professional drain your water heater can vary depending on the technician, the location, and the amount of buildup. A professional can quickly and safely remove the sediment, ensuring your appliance runs efficiently.