Why Isn’t My Water Heater Draining?

Water heaters are appliances that homeowners often take for granted—until they stop working properly, that is. Unfortunately, issues with water heaters, especially older ones, come up all the time and must be addressed by a plumber in Colorado Springs, CO to ensure that they keep working properly. One of the most important components of your water heater is your drain valve. This valve enables you to empty your water heater regularly to deplete mineral deposits. When this valve doesn’t work, it can negatively affect the operation and efficiency of your water heater unit.

Why water heater drainage is necessary

As your water heater operates, many of the hard minerals that are found in water, such as calcium, lime scale and iron, accumulate in your tank. Over time, these mineral deposits build up to the point that they can impact the efficiency of your water heater. Because of this, it’s important to flush your water heater at least once a year. This is where your drainage valve comes in. If you notice that your drainage valve isn’t releasing any water when you open it up, or only a small stream of water comes out, it’s time to start troubleshooting the issue.

How to deal with a clog

Here are some steps to take to deal with a clog that’s preventing your water heater from draining properly:

• Shut off your water heater’s power source: If you have an electric water heater, turn off the breaker to the circuit it’s on. With a gas water heater, you should turn off the gas valve. Do this before you start trying to fix the valve issue.
• Break the vacuum: When your water heater isn’t in use, the tank contains a vacuum, which can prevent you from draining it. Connect a hose to your drainage valve to run outside and open up the pressure relief valve of your tank to break the vacuum.
• Open your valve: Next, you should open up your valve. If your tank doesn’t drain, or is very slow to do so, you’re probably dealing with a clog.
• Try breaking the clog: As water leaves your tank, try to create a kink in the hose close to your valve to see if you can force some water or air back up into your tank. This may help break up the mineral deposit or clog that’s preventing your valve from draining freely.
• Call a professional: If you can’t fix the clog easily on your own, it’s a good idea to call a plumber in Colorado Springs, CO for professional help. They will be able to address the clog without risking any damage to your water heater.

Hire a plumber in Colorado Springs, CO

Regardless of why you need help from a plumber in Colorado Springs, CO, you want to make sure that you are getting the best service possible at a reasonable price. When you call Affordable Rooter Plumbing, Sewer, and Drain, you can feel confident in the quality of the work we do, and you don’t have to worry about getting overcharged for service. We have developed a reputation over the last two decades for the outstanding quality of our work and our competitive prices. From drain cleaning to water heater repair, our team is here to help you out. Browse our website to learn more about our services and give us a call to set up an appointment.

Categorised in: Plumber

This post was written by Writer