Water heaters are one of the most important systems in your home, yet they are often forgotten until there’s a problem. From hot water for morning showers to dishwashing and laundry, a water heater makes daily comfort possible. However, many homeowners overlook one of the most critical water heater maintenance tasks: learning when and how to flush your water heater.
Do Water Heaters Need To Be Flushed Every Year?
So, do you really need an annual water heater flush? The short answer is yes most water heaters need to flush at least once a year. In this guide, we’ll explain why flushing is essential, the risks of neglect, and how proper cleaning, repair, and installation services can extend the life of your hot water heater.
Why Flushing a Water Heater Matters
Over time, sediment and minerals like calcium and magnesium settle at the bottom of the tank. This build-up happens faster in areas with hard water. The bottom of the tank collects this sediment, forcing the system to work harder when heating the water.
When sediment builds up:
- The heating element and the water inside the tank work less efficiently.
- Energy bills increase because the unit struggles to heat water.
- Hot water supply shrinks as sediment takes up space.
- Corrosion increases, and the water heater tank may corrode more quickly.
- The risk of scalding and leaks rises.
Regular draining and flushing clears out these problems, ensuring your water heater’s efficiency and extending the system’s lifespan.
Do You Really Need to Flush Every Year?
Most water heaters need flushing at least once every year. In some homes, you may need to flush more often depending on conditions.
Factors that affect how often you should flush a water heater:
- Water hardness – Hard water leaves behind more sediment and minerals, so water heaters should be flushed at least once a year.
- Usage – Large families that use more hot water will likely need maintenance more often.
- Age – Older water heater tanks corrode faster, requiring regular checks.
If you live in an area with hard water, like Idaho Falls, annual flushing is not optional it’s necessary.
Risks of Skipping Annual Flushing
If you don’t flush your water heater, problems may not appear immediately but will worsen over time. Common risks include:
- Higher utility costs as sediment insulates the heating element and the water.
- Reduced hot water supply due to sediment taking up tank space.
- Corrosion inside the tank, leading to costly repair or replacement.
- Pressure-relief valve issues and increased risk of leaks.
- Unexpected breakdowns, which often mean replacing the water heater.
Neglecting annual water heater maintenance can cut the lifespan of your unit in half.
Benefits of Flushing Your Water Heater
A proper water heater flush is one of the simplest maintenance tasks with the biggest payoff. Benefits include:
- Extending the life of your water heater.
- Consistent hot water supply.
- Lower bills due to more efficient heating.
- Peace of mind for every homeowner knowing the system is safe.
Flushing your water heater regularly is one of the most effective ways to avoid emergency repair and keep your home’s hot water running smoothly.
DIY Water Heater Flush vs Hiring a Plumber
Some homeowners attempt to flush their water heater themselves. While it’s possible, there are key differences compared to hiring a plumber.
DIY steps to flush the tank:
- Turn off the power or turn off the gas, depending on whether you have an electric water heater or gas water heater.
- Shut off the water supply.
- Attach a garden hose to the drain valve.
- Open the drain and let the water run until clear.
While this process helps, sediment often clings to the water heater tank. Professionals use high-powered tools, check the anode rod, pressure relief valve, and ensure no corrosion is weakening the system.
Benefits of hiring a plumber:
- Complete flushing and removal of sediment.
- Checking the anode and replacing the anode rod if needed.
- Inspecting valves, the heating element, and water heater drain for leaks.
- Ensuring your water heater in order for long-term use.
Hard Water Problems and Your Water Heater
Hard water is one of the most common water system issues. It speeds up sediment build-up and makes water heaters corrode faster. If faucets and shower heads have white scale, you may need to flush sediment from your heater every year. Using a water softener alongside annual water heater maintenance tasks can extend the life of your system.
Signs You Need Professional Help
Even if you flush the tank regularly, some warning signs require professional service:
- Rumbling or popping sounds inside the heater.
- Rusty hot water coming from faucets.
- Water heater leaking around the floor drain.
- Reduced hot water supply.
- Old water heater (8–10 years) with no recent service.
If these appear, call in a plumbing expert right away. A skilled technician can provide repair, installation, and water heater maintenance that ensures safe operation.
Conclusion: Keep Your Water Heater in Top Shape
Every homeowner should schedule an annual water heater flush to extend the life of the system, ensure your water heater works safely, and avoid unexpected costs. Idaho Falls homeowners dealing with hard water may even need to flush the water heater every year without fail.
At Idaho Falls Heating and Cooling, we provide expert flushing, cleaning, repair, and installation services for all types of water heaters tank water heaters, gas and electric water heaters, and tankless systems. Whether you need a quick maintenance check or a full annual water heater flush, our licensed plumbers are ready to help.
FAQs About Flushing a Water Heater
What happens if you don’t flush a water heater?
The water heater tank fills with sediment and minerals, reducing efficiency and increasing the chance of corrosion.
How often should water heaters be flushed?
At least once a year. Some systems heat water in high-demand homes may need flushing twice yearly.
How long does it take to flush your water heater?
A professional plumber usually finishes within an hour.
Does flushing extend the life of the heater?
Yes, flushing helps extend the life of the heater every year by preventing build-up and corrosion.
