At Springboro Plumbing & Drain, we understand that keeping your water heater in top shape is crucial! Preventative care is key to its longevity and efficiency. But here’s the thing – many homeowners forget about flushing the water heater tank, which is a vital part of proper water heater care. So, when’s the best time to do it, and how frequently should you tackle this task? These are all valid questions. Stick around as we delve into the ins and outs of water heater maintenance together. 

the Reasons: 

When minerals build up in your water heater’s tank over time, they harden into solid deposits (sediment) that can really mess with its efficiency. The sediment accumulates along the interior sides and bottom of the water heater’s tank. This mineral buildup acts as an unnecessary barrier that can make your system use more energy than necessary, take much longer to heat water and lead to pricey repairs. This is why flushing the tank regularly is key to keeping things running smoothly! One thing to note is that the harder your water is, the more often you might need to flush the tank to get rid of those minerals.  

The Seasons: 

The optimal times to flush your water heater are spring and fall. These seasons usually align with reduced hot water usage in homes.  

• Why the spring? Spring brings warmer weather, so your hot water needs usually go down. Therefore, it’s a good time to get your water heater ready for the busier summer ahead. Flushing in spring helps your system work better when you need it most. 
• Why the fall? Fall is a good time to flush your water heater, too. Just like you get your home ready for the colder months, your water heater needs some TLC, too. Flushing it in the fall clears out any sediment buildup, so it can work efficiently when you need hot water throughout the winter. 

If you can’t get your water heater serviced twice a year, homeowners should aim for a yearly flush instead. So, if your water heater is due for a flush, schedule one soon. We’re here to help you out with that! 

The Signs: 

Besides following the seasonal approach, there are some signs that could hint at when it’s time to flush your water heater, no matter the season. 

• Are There Irregular Noises? One way to tell it’s time to flush your water heater is when you start hearing strange noises like pops, rumbles, or crackling. These sounds happen because the heating elements are putting in extra effort to heat water through built-up sediment layers. 
• Is There Discolored Water? If the water from your taps looks off-color, it might mean there’s rust and sediment in your tank. Flushing it out can clear these out, so you have clean water at home. 
• Is There Less Hot Water? If you’re noticing hot water running out faster than usual, it could be due to sediment taking up space in the tank. This insulation from the heater’s elements might be reducing the available hot water, meaning it could be time for a flush. 

Regularly flushing your water heater can really set it up to succeed and help it last longer and work better. In conclusion, try planning this maintenance job for spring or fall when you’re using less hot water. Additionally, you should always keep an eye out for signs that it needs a tank flush. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, consider getting a professional plumber to handle it for peace of mind and to ensure it’s done safely and the right way. 

If you’re considering getting a water heater flush, don’t hesitate calling Springboro Plumbing & Drain at (937) 912-1338, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!