Your gas hot water heater is a powerhouse appliance, providing consistent hot water for your family’s daily needs. But like any mechanical system, it requires regular maintenance to perform efficiently and last for its full lifespan. One of the most critical and often-overlooked tasks is draining the tank. While the process is similar for both gas and electric models, a gas unit has an important additional safety step related to the gas supply and pilot light. Knowing how to drain a hot water heater gas model correctly is crucial for your safety and the longevity of your appliance.
In this comprehensive guide, Hale Home Services will walk you through every step of draining your gas water heater, from shutting down the system to refilling the tank. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to perform essential gas heater maintenance and prevent costly problems down the road.
Why Draining Your Gas Water Heater is Non-Negotiable
The main reason to regularly drain a gas water heater is to combat sediment buildup. Sediment, composed of minerals like calcium carbonate and magnesium, is a natural byproduct of heating water, especially in areas with hard water. Over time, this sediment settles at the bottom of the tank, causing several problems:
Reduced Efficiency: The sediment creates a barrier between the burner at the bottom of the tank and the water. The burner has to work much harder and run longer to heat the water, leading to wasted energy and higher utility bills.
Decreased Hot Water Capacity: As the sediment layer gets thicker, it takes up valuable space, reducing the total amount of hot water your tank can hold.
Loud Noises: Trapped sediment can cause a popping, rumbling, or banging sound as the water heats up and agitates the mineral deposits. This is a telltale sign that a flush gas water tank is long overdue.
Premature Failure: The constant overheating and stress on the tank’s inner lining caused by sediment can lead to corrosion, leaks, and a premature breakdown of the entire unit.
By learning how to drain a hot water heater gas model, you are directly addressing these issues and extending the life of your appliance.
When to Perform a Gas Water Heater Flush
For most homeowners, performing a gas heater maintenance flush annually is sufficient. However, if you notice any of the following signs, it might be time to flush the gas water tank more frequently:
- A rumbling or popping noise coming from the tank.
- A noticeable drop in your hot water supply.
- Cloudy or discolored hot water.
- An unexplained increase in your gas bill.
What You’ll Need
Gathering your tools beforehand will make the process simple and efficient.
- Garden Hose: Long enough to reach from your water heater to a safe draining location (a floor drain, utility sink, or outside away from your home’s foundation).
- Bucket: To catch any residual water or check for sediment.
- Adjustable Wrench or Pliers: To operate the drain valve.
- Flathead Screwdriver: Some plastic drain valves require this.
- Towels: For any spills.
- Safety Glasses: Highly recommended.
- Work Gloves: Optional, but useful.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Drain a Hot Water Heater (Gas Model)
Follow these steps carefully to ensure a safe and effective draining process. Remember, if you’re ever in doubt, it’s always best to call a professional.
If you’re not comfortable performing this maintenance yourself, our licensed plumbers at Hale Home Services are ready to help. Contact us for professional gas heater maintenance and water heater services. Call 385-853-7378 to schedule an appointment.
Step 1: Turn Off the Gas Supply and Pilot Light
This is the most critical and distinct step for a gas model. Locate the gas control valve on the front of the unit, usually near the bottom. Turn the dial to the “OFF” position. For some models, you may also need to turn it to the “PILOT” setting, then find the pilot light button and turn it off. This prevents the burner from igniting when the tank is empty, which could cause a fire or explosion.
Step 2: Shut Off the Cold Water Supply
Find the cold water inlet valve on the pipe at the top of the water heater. Turn the handle clockwise until it is fully closed. This stops new cold water from entering the tank while you drain it.
Step 3: Open a Hot Water Faucet
Go to any sink or tub faucet in your home and turn on the hot water. This releases the pressure inside the tank and allows air to enter as the water drains. Leave it running throughout the process.
Step 4: Connect the Garden Hose to the Drain Valve
Locate the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater. It looks like a small spigot. Attach one end of your garden hose to this valve. Direct the other end of the hose to a safe draining location. This could be a floor drain in your basement, a utility sink, or outside.
Step 5: Open the Drain Valve
Once the hose is in place, carefully open the drain valve. Be prepared for hot water initially, so wear safety glasses and exercise caution. You’ll likely see cloudy or discolored water flowing out, a clear sign that sediment is being flushed. Allow the tank to drain completely. This can take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of your tank and the amount of sediment.
Step 6: Flush the Tank (Optional but Recommended)
After the tank is empty and the water running from the hose is clear, you can perform an extra flush gas water tank step to dislodge any stubborn sediment.
- Close the drain valve.
- Slowly open the cold water supply valve at the top for a few minutes. You’ll hear the water rushing in and stirring up any remaining sediment.
- Open the drain valve again to let the newly agitated sediment flow out.
- Repeat this open-and-close process a couple of times until the water is consistently clear.
Step 7: Close the Drain Valve and Disconnect the Hose
When you are satisfied that the tank is clean and empty, close the drain valve tightly. Disconnect the garden hose.
Step 8: Close the Hot Water Faucet
Go back to the faucet you opened in Step 3 and turn it off.
Step 9: Refill the Tank
Slowly open the cold water supply valve at the top of the water heater all the way. You will hear the tank filling with water. This should be done slowly to avoid putting too much pressure on the system.
Step 10: Purge Air from the System
As the tank fills, air will be trapped in the water lines. To get rid of this, open a few hot water faucets in your home (starting with the one closest to the water heater) and let them run until the water flows smoothly and consistently without sputtering. This indicates that all the air has been pushed out.
Step 11: Relight the Pilot Light and Restore Gas
Once the tank is full and the air is purged, it’s time to relight the pilot light. Follow your water heater’s specific instructions for this step. Generally, it involves:
- Turning the gas control valve to the “PILOT” setting.
- Pressing and holding the pilot button while lighting the pilot with the igniter or a long lighter.
- Continuing to hold the button for about a minute after the flame is lit to allow the thermocouple to heat up and keep the gas flowing.
- Releasing the button and turning the dial back to the “ON” or desired temperature setting.
Step 12: Check for Leaks
After everything is back in place, check the connections, especially around the drain valve and cold water inlet, for any drips or leaks. If you notice any, tighten the connections.
Common Questions and Troubleshooting
What if the drain valve is stuck? This is a common problem with older valves. Do not try to force it, as you could break the valve and cause a leak. It’s best to call a professional from Hale Home Services to handle a stuck valve.
How often should I do this? For general gas heater maintenance, once a year is a great routine. If you live in an area with particularly hard water, every six months is a good idea.
What if the pilot light won’t stay lit? A common reason for this is a faulty thermocouple. This is a job for a professional.
What if the water is still cloudy after draining? It’s normal for the water to be slightly cloudy for a few hours. If it persists, it might be a sign of a more significant issue inside the tank.
The Rewards of Regular Maintenance
Taking the time to learn how to drain a hot water heater gas model is one of the best things you can do for your home’s plumbing system. It’s a simple, proactive measure that can prevent a catastrophic leak, improve the efficiency of your unit, and save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repair and replacement costs. By regularly performing this essential gas heater maintenance, you’ll ensure your hot water system runs smoothly and reliably for many years to come.
Don’t wait for a breakdown to think about maintenance. The simple act of a yearly flush of a gas water tank will give you the peace of mind that comes with a well-cared-for home.
If you’re facing a hot water heater issue or just prefer to have a professional handle it, our team at Hale Home Services is ready to assist. We offer complete and comprehensive plumbing services. Contact us today for all your plumbing needs!