How to Drain a Residential Gas Water Heater

Many plumbing professionals suggest draining a gallon of water from the water heater every month to avoid sludge buildup. Often, though, water heater draining is never thought of until the water coming out of the faucet has a slight color. Whether it is to flush the tank or replace the current unit, it is necessary to drain the residential gas water heater. Draining it does not require shutting off the gas completely. However, it is necessary to ensure that the burners do not turn on when the tank is empty.

• 1

  Turn the gas valve on the front of the water heater to the "Pilot" position. This keeps the pilot light burning without igniting the burners.

• 2

  Shut off the cold water supply to the water heater. A valve is on the water pipe above the tank. Rotate the valve handle so that it is perpendicular to the water pipe.

• 3

  Attach a garden hose to the drain valve near the bottom of the tank. The drain valve resembles an outdoor spigot. Set the other end of the hose in a nearby tub or outside.

• 4

  Rotate the drain valve knob counterclockwise with your hand. Turn on the hot water at the nearest faucet to the hot water heater. This helps drain the tank quicker.

• 5

  Open the cold water supply valve briefly once the water stops draining from the hose. Allow the cold water to run until it drains from the hose clear. Turn off the cold water supply.

• 6

  Shut off the drain valve, turning the handle clockwise. Remove the garden hose from the tank and turn on the cold water supply to fill the tank.

• 7

  Observe the open sink faucet. When the water flows steadily from the faucet, turn the hot water handle off. Turn the gas valve to the "On" position.