When your water heater won’t drain, the most likely cause is a clogged drain valve. This is generally the result of excessive sediment build-up within the tank. When water is heated, the minerals in the water separate and settle to the bottom of the water heater.

What do you do when your hot water heater won’t drain?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: And let the water out is to loosen up one of the supply lines this is supply line it out of the tank. So what I'm gonna do is basically just release collar.

Why is it taking so long to drain my water heater?





If the water heater won’t drain or is draining slowly, the problem is likely to be that too much sediment has built up in the water heater. Sediment can clog the water heater’s drain valve. The steps below show you how to break the sediment buildup so you can drain a clogged water heater through the drain valve.

How long does it take a 40 gallon water heater to drain?

This can take 20 to 60 minutes, depending on how big the tank is. Be careful not to damage or break the drain valve when you open and close it. Never force the valve open or closed.

What is the fastest way to drain a water heater?

How to Flush Your Water Heater

  1. Open the cold water valve. Let the cold water run into the tank for about 15 – 20 seconds and then shut it back off. …
  2. Shut off the drain valve. …
  3. Open up the hot water faucets in the house. …
  4. Turn the burner control back to the on position.


How long does it take for a 60 gallon hot water tank to drain?





Open the spigot’s valve to allow water to run out of the tank. Help the draining by opening a hot water tap at a sink near the water tank. This allows some air into the pipes, which forces the water inside the tank to flow faster. A 60-gallon unit typically drains in about an hour or so.

How long does it take to drain a hot water tank?

Draining a water heater is something you should do once a year to keep your hot water heater running smoothly. The draining process is quick, usually no more than 15 minutes, depending on the size of your tank, but prep work takes a bit longer, and the whole process may require about a day.

How do you drain a clogged water heater with sediment?

Turn ON the water to the faucet. OPEN the water heater’s drain valve and allow the water to flow into the tank for 10 to 15 seconds. The water from the hose should push the sediment away from the valve and clear the clog. Turn OFF the water at the faucet and CLOSE the drain valve.

Do you have to turn gas off to drain water heater?

Turn off the gas: Gas-based water heaters need to have the gas pipe leading into the thermostat shut off as well. Turn off the water: The last thing to turn off is the cold water supply, which should be cranked off like any other water valve in your home.

How do I know if my water heater has sediment?



Symptoms of Sediment in Your Hot Water Heater

  1. There is no hot water.
  2. The water temperature fluctuates.
  3. Popping or rumbling noises coming from the tank.
  4. Your hot water looks rusty and smells bad.
  5. There are small leaks near the water heater drain valve.
  6. Water takes a long time to heat up.


How much water should you drain from hot water heater?

Open up the drain valve on the tank and allow it to empty. Depending on the size of the hose and pressure, you can expect it to deliver 9 to 17 GPM. So if you have a 50 gallon tank, the water should be flowing at full pressure for 3 to 6 minutes – if the flow is slow, is trickling, etc…

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



3 Signs it is Time to Drain your Water Heater

  1. #1. Your water isn’t as hot as it should be. If you are getting lukewarm water, the problem could be lime buildup around your heating elements. …
  2. #2. You’ve noticed sludge in your water. …
  3. #3. It’s been more than 12 months since you last drained it.