Correct Way to FLUSH WATER HEATER! 2-Minute Tutorial

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 6 ก.พ. 2025
  • Flushing your water heater is one way you can add years to its lifespan. This process removes any sediment building up at the bottom of your hot water heater. This buildup of sediment can cause corrosion to your tank and reduce its heating efficiency. I take you through a detailed step by step process on how to drain and flush your water heater and explain why this is necessary. I'll even show you how to keep your shut-off valve from leaking!
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ความคิดเห็น • 429

  • @HandymanHertz
    @HandymanHertz  หลายเดือนก่อน +11

    ⚠ Did you find this video super helpful or save you money? Buy Tim a coffee to say thanks: ☕
    PayPal: paypal.me/handymanhertz
    Venmo: @timhertz

  • @JoshLsmith1
    @JoshLsmith1 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +52

    Thanks man. Been a homeowner for 3 years and nobody ever told me this was part of the job. Thing seems to be running much better!

    • @-.Steven
      @-.Steven หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      When my wife and I bought our first home in 92, my father said to me, "Son, when it comes to owning a home, if it's not one thing, it's ten." Good luck to you! And thanks to great videos like this to help us with the ten things!

  • @tbauer2521
    @tbauer2521 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +93

    2 minute video instead of 20. Subscribed.

    • @-.Steven
      @-.Steven หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Dam straight!

  • @thebeezneez1000
    @thebeezneez1000 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +206

    That shut off valve edit was smooth..👏

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  8 หลายเดือนก่อน +17

      Haha thanks! Still an amateur editor, but having fun with it.

    • @kidskuloft1596
      @kidskuloft1596 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      You’re doing great. I’ve been binging your vids. Great work man

    • @Turco949
      @Turco949 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@HandymanHertz You mean it was a video editing trick? I thought it was a snap-on type valve!

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thanks, I appreciate it! I hope to start doing more videos this winter

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Nope, just a little editing magic 😉

  • @Anton-g1f
    @Anton-g1f 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +34

    Bro the editing to get that shutoff valve onto the pipe was lowkey top skill.

    • @-.Steven
      @-.Steven หลายเดือนก่อน

      Incredible! Loved that magic trick! Wish I could do plumbing like that! ❤

  • @Guycanha
    @Guycanha 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +35

    Thanks for keeping it brief and to the point. Going to Flush now.

  • @Fender96
    @Fender96 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +71

    Wow, I figured that adding a shutoff valve to my water heater was going to be super difficult. But after seeing him do it at 00:18, I’m ready to try it.
    Looks way easier than I thought!

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

      Haha editing magic! No, it is easy, I have a video on installing that one

    • @Fender96
      @Fender96 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      @@HandymanHertz Yeah, that was a hillarious effect! Thanks for the very informative video. I ended up flushing my hot water tank out real good last night after watching, and was able to remove about 10 years of accumulated sediment.

    • @mooserider1
      @mooserider1 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      I must have watched him throwing that valve onto the pipe 20 times. Even realistic in slow motion!

    • @mase7557
      @mase7557 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      It was actually magical.

  • @Double_Platinum_Dante
    @Double_Platinum_Dante 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +39

    I did this today and got it all flushed out. This will be the second thing I have done thanks to your videos. It's time to watch more to see what Im doing next. Thanks!!!!

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Cool! What was the other video you watched? I'd suggest watching the video on replacing at your anode rod or cleaning your fridge coils. Seems like those are easily overlooked. 👍🏼 I appreciate you watching.

    • @Double_Platinum_Dante
      @Double_Platinum_Dante 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

      My pilot light wouldn't stay lit. I followed the video and haven't had a problem since. I apologize, but I didn't tell my wife I watched your video, I took all the credit. I liked and subscribed hoping that would make us even...

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  8 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      @TWHappen 😆 hey, glad you scored some points with the wife! Yup, all even 👍🏼

  • @winstonsizemore2385
    @winstonsizemore2385 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +14

    I live in a secluded mountainous region with amazingly pure water. I installed an 80 gallon electric hot water heater in 1996. I've had to replace some of the wiring, I've had to replace the elements of course several times, add replace the thermostat. New computers on this it's old. However have never flushed it out or done any maintenance on it. Well next year around summer will be 30 years it's been working , obviously it's a testament to the purity of the water.❤

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      That's amazing, sounds like a dream location 👍

    • @kaspermalin9690
      @kaspermalin9690 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I just bought a house with nearly pure spring water that is on a cistern. All of the sudden we have no hot water. Has this happened to you? If so, what was the remedy? Thanks!

    • @kaspermalin9690
      @kaspermalin9690 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@HandymanHertz it will be. Lots of work and learning to do first.

    • @-.Steven
      @-.Steven หลายเดือนก่อน

      Indeed! Gotta be that pure water! No hydrofluorosilicic acid, chlorine, and the hundreds of other toxins added or naturally occurring in municipal water systems! My wife grew up at the base of a mountain with the sweetest tasting water, once the city grew and incorporated water from other sources, the taste and quality went to 💩. I have cousins on the other side of the valley and their water was so hard and Nasty tasting that the joke was, one could walk on the water in their town. 🤢

    • @Terrance-l2c
      @Terrance-l2c หลายเดือนก่อน

      Low mineral content. Is it a groundwater source like a well? Or a surface water source? (Lake, river, etc.)?

  • @GooeySauce_5
    @GooeySauce_5 23 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Thank you so much for this video, we just recently had our plumber change out our old water with a new one & he told me to drain it but I completely forgot how he told me to do it, so glad I came across your video! You’re a life saver dude!

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  22 วันที่ผ่านมา

      You’re welcome! Glad to help and good for you for doing it. 👍

  • @sweatygriptape628
    @sweatygriptape628 27 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    I flushed mine today. Your video was spot on, no frills, and let me know everything I needed to. Thanks bro! My family’s skin and health thanks you!

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  20 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Glad I could help. My videos all either entertain or educate. Or at least that’s my goal, no wasting time.

  • @-.Steven
    @-.Steven หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    ~ 2:00 ...After its all back together, turn your water heater back on, the gas or electric power.
    Thanks for the video! I'm draining my gas water heater as I type this, and the water is draing So Sloooooowwww! But if I open the input valve it flows faster. The initial was was a "lovely" brownish rust color. 😂
    Edit: After opening and closing the input valve several times, quickly, the hot water began to flow at a nice rate. I know I've definitely neglected my water heater by not flushing regularly. Thanks again for this Short and Sweet video! Right to the point, no fluff, no filler! You're a DIY Champ!

  • @BillEckles-uu7op
    @BillEckles-uu7op 25 วันที่ผ่านมา +6

    This is the model for helpful videos, great job, no time wasting BS.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  20 วันที่ผ่านมา

      My video styles aren’t about wasting peoples time as I hate videos that waste mine.

  • @xugefu
    @xugefu 12 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Thanks!

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  12 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Hey thanks for the tip! I appreciate it a lot!

  • @csc1d
    @csc1d 28 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    Straight to the problem... not 2 hours of garbage.... GREAT. I subscribed.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  20 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thanks for the sub! Wasting peoples time isn’t my style unless it’s educational or entertaining.

  • @ABR11hour
    @ABR11hour 25 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    0:16 super quick install of your turn off valve. I like it

  • @palomafernandez6748
    @palomafernandez6748 21 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Doing this and replaced the anode rod as well. The old one was corroded shut but luckily we have an impact wrench. I was flushing the water for a bit, lots of small chunky things and sediment came out, but water only flowed when we turned the intake valve on. When we removed the rod, it must have broken a chunk of and unclogged something, that water started flowing so fast. Now its getting clearer. I got some more flushing to do...

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  20 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Sounds like you’re making a lot of progress

  • @hotriffsofthrash
    @hotriffsofthrash 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +18

    Thank you for sharing this! Just got a house. First time home owner and need to start learning things like this.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  8 หลายเดือนก่อน +18

      You're welcome! You may pull out your anode rod and look at that, and clean your fridge coils too. I have videos on both of this, and they are commonly overlooked or not known about. Also, keep your furnace filters, clean, which I'm sure you already know. And if it has a basement, make sure you get water away from the walls during the rain. Make sure gutters are working properly and not plugged. I'm thinking of doing a playlist called "what homeowners need to know" sometime in the future.

    • @mrtncrls
      @mrtncrls 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Congrats on the house!

    • @PaulTMaack0
      @PaulTMaack0 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Ditto. That's why I'm here. I just noticed that my HVAC was installed by someone who must have been doing it for the first time, and in a hurry, then I looked slightly to the right, and saw my water heater. I'm like "Uh... The water here is really... hard. I'm gonna just go flush that now." Then decided to look up how to do that. ;)

    • @hotriffsofthrash
      @hotriffsofthrash 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@mrtncrls thank you!

    • @hotriffsofthrash
      @hotriffsofthrash 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@HandymanHertz Thank you!!

  • @old-greg
    @old-greg 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Thx for the video, ive lived in my home for 3 years and didnt kniw i was suppose to do this. We do have hard water here

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      You're welcome. It's very easy and not much time.

  • @bmg198443
    @bmg198443 20 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Dude! Thank you for this video! You explained everything perfectly and I was able to do this to my hot water heater.

  • @rzh3443
    @rzh3443 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I drain a few gallons (about 5) under pressure every months as the owner’s manual recommends. That keeps the crap from building up at the bottom. Most people , in my circle, have not a clue about draining and flushing the tank.

  • @lornaobrien6935
    @lornaobrien6935 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thank you. First time watcher😊. I followed your instructions and my water is simply amazing. I was stressing about an expensive fix and you were able to help me. Well explained and easy. I spent more time looking for a screwdriver than the actual fix took. Awesome. 👏

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Haha I'm so glad it worked for you. Sounds like you need to watch my tool bag video so You always know ever your screwdriver is 😉

  • @MonieMick
    @MonieMick 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I drain my heater every year but have never turned the valve on and off to flush it. Thank you for this!

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      You're welcome. Good job on keeping up with your maintenance, that's impressive.

    • @Lughnerson
      @Lughnerson 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@HandymanHertz I put all the repeating maintenance tasks on my calendar so they regularly pop-up reminders at the appropriate time.

    • @shellybelle6781
      @shellybelle6781 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Are you supposed to do this yearly?

    • @shellybelle6781
      @shellybelle6781 15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@HandymanHertzhow often should you drain a gas heater?

  • @laceit2001
    @laceit2001 29 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Is there a video on if we should clean the antode rod? Or only replace? How often?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  29 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yes, I have a good short video on it. It should be in the description or search for handyman hertz anode rod.

  • @SoundOfYourDestiny
    @SoundOfYourDestiny 23 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    In my setup, water would not drain from the heater without the cold-water source valve on... even with a hot-water faucet open inside the house. So it took ages to flush the tank to the point of running clear, and I question whether the sediment was adequately stirred up to be ejected.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  22 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Sounds like sediment has built up and closed up the orifice of the drain valve. A person could try to poke something in there, but it sounds like it’s blocked. Probably useless at this point, you may just want to run it till it blows, so to speak.

    • @SoundOfYourDestiny
      @SoundOfYourDestiny 22 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@HandymanHertz Thanks, but there was plenty of flow from the drain valve. Just not without the cold-water input being on, even though I had opened the nearest hot-water tap. I should have tried the pressure-relief valve, but I didn't know about it until I'd already flushed and restarted the heater.
      The biggest problem is that this American Standard heater has no visible anodes. The manual has a parts diagram that shows TWO of them, but not where they go. And the manual makes no mention of them in any procedure. Really unprofessional.

  • @user-hd9qm7td7n
    @user-hd9qm7td7n 19 ชั่วโมงที่ผ่านมา

    Is it ok to have a plastic drain valve cap?

  • @greggc8088
    @greggc8088 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    We had a water heater in our house that was 23 years old according to the date on the side. It was never flushed or anything else done to it. I finally replaced it this year because it's in my work from home office and didn't want a surprise. I wished I had thought to cut it open to see how cruddy it looked inside before hauling it to the dump. I've never seen one last that long. Seems like 12-15 years is what I've seen in my other houses.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Wow that's amazing lifespan. It would be fun to cut into it and see what it looked like. 23 years old and kept going.

  • @farazhamied2942
    @farazhamied2942 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    Thank you man. Consise and with all the knowledge needed to do this task.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      You're welcome. Glad you enjoyed it

  • @alisonfrazee750
    @alisonfrazee750 8 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Thank you so much for making this video so helpful

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  6 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Glad to hear it was helpful!

  • @rickallen6378
    @rickallen6378 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    How often should that anode rod be replaced?

  • @connorlangpap4220
    @connorlangpap4220 28 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Does the gas get turned back on after refilling? When does the pilot light go on?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  20 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Likely it will need relit if it was turned off

  • @blcdad01
    @blcdad01 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

    Great job explaining this in a short video!

  • @PauIieWalnuts
    @PauIieWalnuts หลายเดือนก่อน

    Doing this now. Water running fairly clear, with small bits of deposits.. hoping the flush part does more

  • @JLeezy864
    @JLeezy864 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Well I'm getting rid of my water heater but this helped a darn good bit and it takes forever to drain completely.

  • @ladybugz4839
    @ladybugz4839 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Is it ever too late to flush out the boiler if you have never done it?
    Does it matter if you have well water supply and propane supply?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  หลายเดือนก่อน

      Well and propane wouldn’t matter. I’d say it’s never too late to flush it, and I guess I just don’t buy the argument from those that say otherwise

  • @larrykopf6664
    @larrykopf6664 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    You didn't turn the gas back on. When do you do that? After the tank is full, which is after how many minutes? Is it difficult to get the pilot lit again?

  • @Dishpjl
    @Dishpjl 7 วันที่ผ่านมา

    If it’s a gas heater, how do you turn it back on? Do you need to light a pilot?

  • @oldgrayfox
    @oldgrayfox 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Should you open the pressure valve while emptying? Some TH-camrs say that you should open it while draining.

  • @ugh635
    @ugh635 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    New homeowner here. How regularly should you flush the HW tank? Annually? Monthly?

    • @noalear
      @noalear 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Annually

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Not monthly, that seems like overkill. Annually seems to be recommended and more practical. 👍

  • @MarkKeele-n3r
    @MarkKeele-n3r หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks. This was clear and concise. It would have been great if you had told us how to safely relight it.

  • @Stay_fresh_cheesebags
    @Stay_fresh_cheesebags 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Thank you so much for this video as a new homeowner! Is there a certain time of year that's ideal for doing this, or does it not matter?

  • @LobbVT
    @LobbVT 22 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    I don't have a shut-off valve, but have a metal pull-up tab thingy right where water enters the tank on the side of the top. Does that also shut-off the water going in?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  22 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Not sure what you’re talking about exactly, but If it’s a ball valve, then that’s correct.

    • @LobbVT
      @LobbVT 22 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@HandymanHertz I think this metal tab is actually for pressure release. There is a ball valve on one of the lines at the top, but I thought that looked like the hot line since red, but starting to think that might actually be my cold water coming in. Hard to tell since both of those lines are hot to the touch.

    • @LobbVT
      @LobbVT 22 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I think I have it figured out now. The one with the valve is the cold. It feels hot because it's laying on the actual hot water line.

  • @DaveyWavey214
    @DaveyWavey214 25 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Would you recommend this for a 25 year old AO Smith electric HW tank? New homeowner who is establishing some maintenance but am wary about doing a yearly flush in fear of opening a can of worms.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  22 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      I’d probably let sleeping dogs lie at that stage. That’s amazing and unheard of for a water heater to go 25 years. I would look and change out the anode rod probably. I’ve got a quick video on that too.

    • @DaveyWavey214
      @DaveyWavey214 21 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@HandymanHertzawesome I’ll check that out!

    • @Willpower64-22
      @Willpower64-22 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      If working fine leave it alone

  • @zackborris2349
    @zackborris2349 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Great video, thanks.
    1, Is it okay or would it help if i pour in a gallon of 5% white vinagar to help further desolving the calcification from the tank before flushing?
    2, is there a way to completely flush all of the sediments from the tank? Or is it okay for a little to remain at the bottom of the tank after flushing?
    Thanks, Z

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Good question! I've never used vinegar. I think most of the sediment on the bottom is sand and rust, and not so much calcium. I could be wrong. It definitely wouldn't hurt to let some white vinegar sit for a while.
      There's one step you could do that I know of that will flush it a little better, and that's to actually use pressured water going in the valve at the bottom. It's like a back flush. Spray pressured water through the valve and then let it drain. I personally think this is overkill, i'm not sure the efficacy of this, but it would definitely help. There's actually a flushing valve kit I've seen Floating around the Internet For this.

    • @zackborris2349
      @zackborris2349 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks for the tip. i will try it.​

  • @tailzzzzz
    @tailzzzzz 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    What if you don't have a floor drain? I would need to somehow run a hose up the Bilco door steps and out into my yard. This water is going to be scorching hot, too, right?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Yes it will be hot and that sounds like the best solution.

  • @omar10wahab
    @omar10wahab หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    My water heater doesn't drain very fast. I did this the other day and it took like 2 hours for me to drain and then burst the water and let it drain again. I not only had a water faucet on but I also had the blow valve open to allow air into the water heater. What am I doing wrong? Fyi it's a long garden hose. Maybe a 20 footer which is overkill but I'm not sure if that's the issue

    • @jamiek1191
      @jamiek1191 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I believe many modern tanks don't have a full size drain valve on them, to cut down on the manufacturing costs. I think you can replace them with brass valves and that will help with draining the water faster. There are videos about this on YT.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  หลายเดือนก่อน

      The previous comment is correct. You can replace that valve with a full port valve. Also, there’s a chance that the sediment has almost blocked the drain hole opening from the inside of the water heater. Some people have poked something through the valve to try to break up the sediment. Maybe give that a try?

  • @metallicaman0258
    @metallicaman0258 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    First time viewer, found you by a flush search. I drained the tank first then did the valve trick but it's been 40 minutes and I'm getting dirty water coming out. Is my heater really that bad? The cold water is still visibly clear in the house and from the well source.

    • @nicholem4831
      @nicholem4831 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      I’m here via the same search. Something I read elsewhere said it can take 3-4 hours for water from the tank to run clear depending on the age of the tank and the length of time since the last tank flush.
      I know that info doesn’t help you now since it’s been a couple of weeks lol, but hopefully if someone else sees your question and is wondering the same thing it’ll help them!

  • @john.trevett
    @john.trevett 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    If we likewise don’t have a shut off valve from the water supply, can’t we just kill the power to the water pump and won’t that accomplish the same thing? Same question about cutting off the fuel supply to the hot water heater. Can’t we just kill the power so it doesn’t draw any fuel?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Yes that will accomplish the same thing. 👍

  • @101perspective
    @101perspective 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Could you remove the anode rod and spray water in the hole to break stuff up? Or might that damage stuff?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Interesting. Never heard of that but I think you have the potential to do a better flush that way. Good idea 👍🏼

  • @Agent_Unknown-007
    @Agent_Unknown-007 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Does the anode rod need to be replaced if its been a year since my water heater was installed?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      No, usually not. It all depends on your water source, but the most extreme I’ve heard is about two years.

  • @ralphjoscellumba6039
    @ralphjoscellumba6039 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +31

    Who else rewinded to see that smooth edit?

    • @radish6691
      @radish6691 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Oh yeah, definitely!

  • @Bonkrr
    @Bonkrr 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +17

    I've found that the best way to maximize sediment removal is to remove the lower heating element once I have the tank drained. This allows me to use a water hose to inject water into the bottom of the tank from a variety of angles instead of just from the inflow line. Tends to stir up a lot more sediment that way.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  5 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Great tip or an electric water heater. Thanks for sharing.

    • @mj625
      @mj625 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      I do the same thing, with a small difference. I cut a scrap section of garden hose about 2 feet long, tape it to a shop vac, then suck up the debris through the hole for the bottom element. Works great.

    • @Bonkrr
      @Bonkrr หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@mj625 I may have to steal that idea. Good thinking.

    • @mj625
      @mj625 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@Bonkrr I think you will like it if you try it. It speeds up the process a little bit because you don't have to wait to drain any stirred up sediment. Just be gentle with the hose against the interior tank surface.

  • @getit9066
    @getit9066 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Hello and thanks for this slick and to the point video, it's the clearest and most comprehensive in YT on this subject. Quick question: I have an electric Bradford White Hydrojet 80 gal heater. What is the purpose of the pressure relief valve, and is it needed at all in this procedure? Again, many thanks for putting this together, and I just subscribed.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Wow, thanks for the compliment! The pressure relieve valve is there in case there's a malfunction and the burner never shuts off. If that happens, the pressure will build up and come out the prv. I do not recommend using. It in the draining process, though you could open it to vent the system. They are very prone to leaking and would need replaced.
      Some people have plugged a leaking prv, but this is a bad idea because it builds pressure and goes off like a bomb in the house. You should google some of those images...it's amazing what pressure will do.

    • @getit9066
      @getit9066 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@HandymanHertz Thank you! I'll leave it alone then, seems like a one and done device.

  • @oh_k8
    @oh_k8 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Best video on this ever.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Oh good! Thank you!

  • @PatrickBateman83
    @PatrickBateman83 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Is it true that if you have a old water heater that has never been drained and flushed, you shouldn't start doing it after that so many years have passed?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  5 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      I'm not sure if it's true or not, but I have heard that as well. May not hurt to leave it be if it's really old.

    • @PatrickBateman83
      @PatrickBateman83 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @HandymanHertz Thanks for the reply. Yes, that's my thought as well. I did buy a cap per your suggestion because I have a slight drip leak, probably from mineral build-up.

    • @michellebertin3542
      @michellebertin3542 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Came here wondering the same, thanks for asking! Mine are VERY old and doubt they've ever been flushed but good info to know when they have to be replaced!

    • @heteshdarshnapatel9259
      @heteshdarshnapatel9259 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      That’s what a local plumber told me to

    • @SuperJ213
      @SuperJ213 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I'm wondering the same thing. My 50 gallon water heater is over 20 years old. I can't access the rod easily due to ducting, piping, and ceiling clearance, so I can only guess my rod is long gone. I'm concerned that the second I mess with my heater that it's going to have problems.
      I do wonder if the frequency and amount of hot water used affects anything. My family of 8 vs a couple will have different hot water needs.

  • @codymcgovern8376
    @codymcgovern8376 หลายเดือนก่อน

    question, my water heater has 4 pipes in the top, cold intake, hot outtake, PRV, and the 4th is what i’m assuming is a continuous loop, can i still drain the water heater with the continuous loop pipe or is this a more complex setup where it’s best to consult a plumber?

  • @CroakerOutdoors
    @CroakerOutdoors 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    What should you do if you don't have a shutoff valve? I just have the whole house valve after the well pressure tank by the filter. Would you recommend the same thing?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Yes, I've done this on rentals, just shut off the whole house.

  • @marcnoble7829
    @marcnoble7829 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    0:38
    I tried turning the valve with a screwdriver just like you did and it won't budge at all. Tried a couple other thing and its not moving. Any tips?

  • @brianbanks3044
    @brianbanks3044 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    my tank is 8 years old now and I am afraid to stir all the stuff that may be keeping it together...just like my old days as a mechanic and we flushed steel radiators in cars and then there were leaks all over the place ...all the crap we flushed out of the system was what kept it together...any thoughts on doing it so late in the game????

  • @13abelmendoza
    @13abelmendoza 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    My doesn't have a drain valve. I think the relief pressure think is on top. How do I flip it or turn it?

  • @paule2658
    @paule2658 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    After i did the flush, i had brown water in the hot/cold water lines. How long before it clears up?

  • @michaelmappin4425
    @michaelmappin4425 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I do the flush every year. How often do you change the anode? New heater in 2019.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      that all depends on your water source quality. i have a buddy who went through anode rods every 2 years in wisconsin. here its 10+ years it seems. its easy to shut off the water and pull one out every year or 2 and check untill you get to know your water quality.

  • @hyperchord
    @hyperchord 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Will you need to relight the pilot?

  • @Idrathernot.
    @Idrathernot. 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Do you still have to do this if the water being used by the water heater is softened??

  • @josepgutierrez22
    @josepgutierrez22 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Do I have to turn off gas? Or can I just put it on pilot?

  • @jeffknecht2733
    @jeffknecht2733 20 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    After I emptied the tank, I turned the cold water on and a bunch of sediment came out.
    Just an extra step.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  20 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Yup, that’s the flushing part

  • @SteveRoadcp
    @SteveRoadcp 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +18

    If you have a gas water heater there's no need to shut the gas off. Turn it to PILOT and the burner will not turn on while you are flushing it but the pilot will stay on.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      True. True.

    • @-.Steven
      @-.Steven หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Thanks!

  • @AngelinaThomas-ss6lx
    @AngelinaThomas-ss6lx 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    What if the water runs clear as I start the flushing process? Do I need to continue emptying the tank all the way?

  • @antcap503
    @antcap503 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Is it better to put it on pilot and not off on a gas furnace instead, so you don't have to relite the pilot.

  • @liberatedhippything
    @liberatedhippything 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Do I do anything differently with a thermal exp. Tank installed up top ? I know to check that psi and bladder as well but there's no "first and then" right?

  • @Paulviet
    @Paulviet 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    The drain by the water heater can take all the flow of water okay? Can you also run a hose to a bathtub next door?

  • @JustplayingGames17
    @JustplayingGames17 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Do you have to let the hot water in the water heater cool down before draining or no?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  7 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      No, I never have.

    • @JustplayingGames17
      @JustplayingGames17 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@HandymanHertz ok thank you so much 😊I was Just concerned I would affect the tank if I didn’t let the water cool down first

  • @Scoopthemoopoop
    @Scoopthemoopoop 9 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Keep the valve on for water going in to the heater & let it flow through your heater down to the hose where it is being drained, it will push all of the sediment out & you wont have to wait for the heater to fill back up after; only for the water to heat up. Can also get a sediment buster from amazon & do it that way too.(yellow & black thing)

  • @nationalist818
    @nationalist818 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    No water comes out when the inlet water valve is shut off, I tried every combo of every water faucets on and off. Only time is when the inlet is open water flows out the drain perfect, soon as inletis off it stops. I know the tank is full bc I redid steps with out running the sinks inside after filled tank. any ideas?

    • @gt750kr
      @gt750kr 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      You might have a one way backflow prevention check valve on the water heater outlet.

    • @nationalist818
      @nationalist818 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@gt750kr wouldnt a check valve be between the inlet and the tank? only thing I have besides the inlet valve and outlet , is the thing on the top side of tank that looks like toggle wing anchor.

    • @Bonkrr
      @Bonkrr 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Flip open the pressure relief valve on your hot water heater. That will also allow air to flow in and water to flow out.

    • @garytemp
      @garytemp หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@Bonkrrjust be aware that activating the pressure relief valve may lead to it leaking and need to replace.

    • @Bonkrr
      @Bonkrr หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@garytemp Fair point. I wouldn't expect that manually opening it would stress it too much, but it's certainly something to be aware of.

  • @SoulSeeker770
    @SoulSeeker770 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Are those anodize rod the same for all heaters?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Not all. Theres 2 types in the USA, most of the brands are like in my abode rod video, where you take it out with a 1 1/6" socket. The other is Bradford white (not sure what order brands) where it's part of the hot water nipple

    • @SoulSeeker770
      @SoulSeeker770 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@HandymanHertz Thank you.

  • @connorgillispie7128
    @connorgillispie7128 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Could my drain valve be a quarter turn? That’s all it turns but not much is draining out :/

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Yes it could be. Some drain valves are slow and some are partially clogged. If it's really Can try to poke some thing through it like a wire.

  • @coreypasta7344
    @coreypasta7344 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Great video - inspired me to get it done! I like the tip to keep an eye on what’s draining out.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thanks Corey! Yeah, it's interesting and satisfying seeing the progress you're making.

  • @soolly357
    @soolly357 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

    I have my water heater for 12 years now... it works amazing i had no idea about this

    • @huntingtonbeachsasquatch
      @huntingtonbeachsasquatch 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      Same here, Never touched it.
      You know though once we start messing around with it somethings going to go wrong with it within a week or so!
      ....Never Fails!😐😢

    • @soolly357
      @soolly357 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@huntingtonbeachsasquatch thinking the same, I was thinking about doing. Buy thought I'd screw it up.

    • @huntingtonbeachsasquatch
      @huntingtonbeachsasquatch 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      @@soolly357 ....Do it early in the day, don't have other plans just in case all hell brakes loose and you snap a pipe or valve and find yourself doing a replacement water heater!😤😠🤬

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Certainly Not a have too. But I think everyone can agree preventative maintenance can add life to about anything.

    • @soolly357
      @soolly357 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @HandymanHertz for future ones yes absolutely

  • @jennifersanders7377
    @jennifersanders7377 25 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Ok so how about when we do all the right steps and no water comes out unless we turn the water valve back on???

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  20 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Hmmm sounds like sediment has clogged your valve or you haven’t opened a faucet to vent the system and it’s still under vacuum.

    • @jennifersanders7377
      @jennifersanders7377 20 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@HandymanHertz it was the pressure release valve. Once I switched that up it started flowing.

  • @patrickcameron2950
    @patrickcameron2950 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    This is such a great explanation. Glad I stumbled across your channel.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks! I appreciate that

  • @rzh3443
    @rzh3443 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I remove about five gallons under pressure every month or two, until water runs clean. My HWH a has lasted over 15 years with no anode rod change or full flush. If you have that level of sediment dropping in , consider a filter system.

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Good point. 👍

    • @JoseGomez-xk3yx
      @JoseGomez-xk3yx 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Can a filter system remove the rust inside the water heater? LL : )

    • @rzh3443
      @rzh3443 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@JoseGomez-xk3yx probably;y not ! I found any rust , per se , can be flushed under pressure as I described. I know when our water mains are flushed a lot of sediment comes in and finds its way to the HW Tank. Rust ( in abundance) is a sign that the tank is on its last legs.

  • @emagik12
    @emagik12 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Does the water suppose to drip from the water heater? Mine drips now since i replaced the gas valve control

  • @denuitsmoongardens8474
    @denuitsmoongardens8474 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    If you lost me at floor drain should I then not attempt this?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Probably not

    • @person880
      @person880 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      He just happens to have a floor drain, most likely because this is in a basement. You can just drag the hose outside of your house and empty it there. Try to aim the hose somewhere safe.

  • @KingCaribe
    @KingCaribe หลายเดือนก่อน

    Do I mess with the pressure release valve at all?

    • @PauIieWalnuts
      @PauIieWalnuts หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Good question.. i had to use mine to get it to flow out

    • @KingCaribe
      @KingCaribe หลายเดือนก่อน

      @ me too man!

  • @myothercarisadelorean8957
    @myothercarisadelorean8957 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Random but similar question for you. Is it okay to use the water heater drain as an outdoor spigot line for rinsing purpose? The water heater at my property has a line connected to the drain that leads through the wall and outside spigot. Between the line looks be a converter because if I touch the line before it, the pipe is warm. But when you turn on the spigot outside it comes out cold. My tenants have been using it to rinse off beach sand off their dogs or items as we live in a beach community. Not a full flush out, its just a few minutes usage of water to wash of sand. Do you know if this is okay or is it likely to cause damage on the water heater?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  5 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      This is perfectly fine. In fact, it's good to use that for that purpose. I couldn't use that water spigot on a washing machine, for instance, because it may have sediments. Nothing harmful with this setup you have that I can think of

    • @myothercarisadelorean8957
      @myothercarisadelorean8957 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@HandymanHertz Thanks! This was setup from the previous owner before I took over so I don't have any answers as to why or what used for. My guess it it may of been used to the automatic sprinkler system. Just thinking that was the case because of why the converter device is installed to expel out cold water.

    • @myothercarisadelorean8957
      @myothercarisadelorean8957 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@HandymanHertz I can email you photos of what it actually looks like if you want a better visual for opinion.

  • @marlenecarrion7555
    @marlenecarrion7555 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Do I let I drain completely until no more water comes out the hose? Thank you

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Yes then open the valve and close it fast. This will flush it

  • @Fixit_e
    @Fixit_e 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Yooo!! The water shutoff install is 🔥 do a tutorial on how you did that edit 😅

  • @TBguitar
    @TBguitar 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    my drain valve is like 1/2 " above the level of the floor, ugh!!! what to do? Also, I have 2 shut off handles and an small expansion tank, which is the one that I need to turn? Thank you !

    • @macfady2181
      @macfady2181 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      The drain being close to the floor doesn't change anything, screw on a hose. Technically, you don't have to turn off any water. Some people "power flush" by just opening the drain and letting the tank refill simultaneously.

    • @TBguitar
      @TBguitar 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@macfady2181 It's going to be a challenge to even get the hose screwed on practically no room to work with, plus a pan is obstructing possibly forcing the hose to elevate upwards, gravity anyone? At what point does the sediment come out, that's the reason for the flush if I'm correct? Thanks again!

  • @martinkasemsan9099
    @martinkasemsan9099 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Super helpful, thank you!

  • @tomdonelson385
    @tomdonelson385 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    We know how to maintain a hot water heater as we lived in our own house for over 30 years before moving to an apt in another state. Our apt has it’s own heater. I asked maintainence when they were going to some basic maintenance on it. They said, never. They just wait till they fail. There is a drain next to the heater, but completely unknown if it is even complete. This building is 10 years old. Same water heater and hasn’t ever been cleaned. If the heater fails and leaks, there will be a problem. These aren’t cheap apts. We’re on the 4th floor and have good renters insurance. Hope everyone below us has good insurance, as well.

  • @HeydaCarreras
    @HeydaCarreras 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Why turn off the gas valve? can't be on Pilot position?

  • @scott4708
    @scott4708 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    So, water we supposed to do again?

  • @BigFarles
    @BigFarles 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Why not replace the leaking valve?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      You can, but it's not worth the hassle to go to the store, buy one for $25, come back home, drain the water heater again and install it, in my opinion. Cheaper and saves money to put a cap on, and that cap will likely outlast my old water heater. It's an option for people, I may do a video down the road on how to replace it.

    • @BigFarles
      @BigFarles 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      @@HandymanHertz I have been told to replace it with a 1/4 turn ball valve as it allows more sentiment to be flushed out. Thanks for the video.

  • @michaeldozier3008
    @michaeldozier3008 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Excellent video, thank you!

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      You're welcome! Glad you liked it.

  • @Sarge999-eb2id
    @Sarge999-eb2id 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Excellent video .Learn something I never knew 👍

  • @ebertolla
    @ebertolla 26 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Why don´t you use a pre-filtration?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  20 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Seems like an unnecessary expense.

  • @latitiaboston1456
    @latitiaboston1456 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    This video is perfect. Thanks so much

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Hey thanks for watching !

  • @elacross3898
    @elacross3898 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    why are they unable to be made more rust/corrosion proof? My thermos never rusts 🤔

  • @SoulSeeker770
    @SoulSeeker770 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    how long between turning off the gas before the water heater is cool enough to drain through the hose?

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  9 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      I've never waited and it's never been an issue with my hoses. So, zero minutes.

    • @SoulSeeker770
      @SoulSeeker770 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@HandymanHertz Thank you again.

    • @macfady2181
      @macfady2181 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@HandymanHertzSome people believe draining a hot tank and filing shortly after will very cold water can cause thermal expansion issues with the liner.

  • @Dhejdjndkksvshsufndkke
    @Dhejdjndkksvshsufndkke 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I never knew there was a anode rod. Thats a huge deal on boats. 👍

    • @HandymanHertz
      @HandymanHertz  2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Oh yeah I bet. I’ve never heard of them on boats, but I have RVs.