If you own a Bradford White water heater and it’s time for some routine maintenance, you’re in the right place. Draining your water heater is an essential task that helps prolong its lifespan and maintain its efficiency. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step instructions for draining your Bradford White water heater with ease.
Why Should You Drain Your Bradford White Water Heater?
Before we dive into the how-to part, let’s understand why it’s crucial to drain your Bradford White water heater periodically:
- Prevent Sediment Buildup: Over time, minerals and sediment can accumulate at the bottom of your water heater tank, reducing its heating efficiency and potentially causing damage.
- Extend Lifespan: Regular draining helps prevent corrosion and prolongs the life of your water heater.
- Maintain Energy Efficiency: A clean tank heats water more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bills.
Now that you know why it’s important, let’s get into the instructions.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you start draining your Bradford White water heater, gather the following tools and materials:
- A garden hose
- A flathead screwdriver
- A bucket or drain pan
- Safety gloves and goggles
- A hose bib or drain valve adapter (if not already installed)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to drain your Bradford White water heater safely and effectively:
Steps to Flush Your Water Heater:
- Turn Off Power Supply:
- For electric water heaters, switch off the electricity.
- For gas water heaters, set the gas control to the pilot setting.
- Shut Off Water Supply:
- Close the cold-water inlet valve to the water heater.
- Prepare for Draining:
- Attach a garden hose to the tank’s drain valve.
- Place the other end of the hose in a safe area where hot water can be safely drained.
- Drain the Tank:
- Open the pressure relief valve.
- Open the drain valve to let the tank drain completely. This helps remove all sediment.
- Close Valves and Remove Hose:
- Once drained, close the tank’s drain valve.
- Disconnect the garden hose and close the pressure relief valve.
- Refill the Tank:
- Open all hot water faucets in your home.
- Turn on the cold-water inlet to the tank.
- Finish Up:
- As water starts flowing from the faucets, close each one.
- Finally, restore power to the electric heater or set the gas control to the “run” position.