When folks think about common plumbing problems the first thing that likely comes to mind is a clogged drain. Do you know where else clogs are a problem? Inside the water heater in your Fountain Hills, AZ home. It’s holding roughly 50 gallons of water 24 hours a day, 365 days a year so it’s not surprising that sediment can settle to the bottom of the tank and clog a water heater. Even if it doesn’t completely clog, the sediment will reduce the heating efficiency of the electric element.
THAT’S WHY DRAINING & FLUSHING IS IMPORTANT
The scenario we just laid out is why Shadrach Plumbing & Cooling recommends a water heater be drained and flushed at least once a year to prevent any clogs. Without this bit of plumbing maintenance, you can end with hot water issues like:
- Waiting a long time for hot water to arrive.
- Running out of hot water before you should (or before your shower ends).
- Not having any hot water at all.
CAN YOU FLUSH A WATER HEATER YOURSELF?
Yes you can, but the better question is SHOULD you do it yourself? Flushing a water heater doesn’t always require the skills of a licensed plumber, but it’s often the best choice. Shadrach doesn’t want to discourage do-it-yourselfers, but there are some safety concerns. While not technically difficult, flushing a water heater does require the skills to work safely with:
- Scalding hot water
- In the case of electric models working with 220-volt electrical circuits
- Working with flammable natural gas or propane
Making a mistake can have consequences including serious injuries. You must ask yourself if that’s a chance you want to take in your Fountain Hills, AZ home.
SHADRACH ALWAYS READY TO HELP
Here’s something else to factor into your decision: Having a trained plumber clear a clogged water heater helps diagnose any additional problems like leaks or dangerous corrosion. If you haven’t had your water heater drained and flushed as part of regular plumbing maintenance, call Shadrach Plumbing & Cooling now to make an appointment. Just one more way our professionals provide comfort and safety in your Fountain Hills, AZ home.
