Practical tips
- Turn off power or set gas to pilot before draining so the heater is not firing on an empty tank.
- Attach a hose to the drain valve and run it to a safe drain; the water can be very hot.
- Flush until the water runs clear, then close the valve and refill before turning the heater back on.
- If the drain valve will not open, drips after closing, or the tank is very old, call a local plumber.