One important water heater maintenance task is flushing or draining the water heater regularly to remove mineral buildup, which prevents reduced efficiency, corrosion, and leaks.

Signs that indicate that it’s time to drain or flush a water heater include reduced water output, discolored water, strange noises, and a foul odor coming from the heater.

Determining which method is best for your water heater depends on factors such as the age and type of the heater, the level of buildup, and the water in your area.

Draining is a quick process used to remove sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. This process can be enough for regular upkeep when the mineral accumulation is not severe.

Flushing eliminates sediment buildup by removing the water from the tank and then using fresh water to clean the inside thoroughly, which can restore the heater’s efficiency.

While draining a water heater can support regular maintenance, flushing is the more effective and recommended method for cleaning out sediment and debris from the tank.