Like most people, you probably don’t think about your water heater until there’s a problem. And if you have a whirlpool water heater, one of those problems may be how to drain it properly. This simple, step-by-step guide will show you how to do just that. So whether you’re preparing for a big move or just want to winterize your home, follow these instructions and get the job done quickly and easily.
Why do we need to drain a whirlpool water heater?
There are a few reasons why you might need to drain your whirlpool water heater. First, if the unit is old, sediments can build up over time and impede effectiveness. Draining the unit will remove these sediments and allow the heater to operate more efficiently. Second, if you notice your water heater is making strange noises or taking longer than usual to heat up, this could be another sign that sediments have built up and are causing problems. In this case, draining the unit will again help to improve performance.
Finally, if you are planning on doing any work on your water heater (such as replacing the heating element), it is always advisable to drain the unit first. This will help to prevent any accidents or damage to the unit during the repair process.
So now that we know why we need to drain a whirlpool water heater let’s look at how to do it. The steps are simple and shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes to complete.
Disconnecting the power to the water heater
The first thing you need to do is shut off the power to the water heater. This can be done by disconnecting the correct fuse or circuit breaker for the water heater. Once the power is off, you can shut off the water heater’s gas supply.
Drain the Hot Water First
Now it’s time to start draining the water heater. But before you do, it’s important to remember that hot water rises. So if you start by draining the cold water first, all the hot water will just sit at the top of the tank and not come out. That’s why it’s best to start by opening the valve at the top of the tank (the “hot” side) and then move on to the bottom once all the hot water is gone.
Attach a Garden Hose
Once you’ve located the correct valves, attaching a garden hose is time. Make sure you use one that is long enough to reach from your water heater to a nearby drain or outside spigot. If you’re using an outdoor fixture, be sure to open it before you start draining the water heater. This will help relieve any pressure in the hose as the water flows out.
Start Draining the Water Heater
Now it’s time actually to start draining the water heater. Begin by opening the valve at the top of the tank (the “hot” side) and letting all the hot water drain out. Once that’s done, move on to the bottom valve and open it up. You should now see a steady stream of water flowing from your water heater and into the drain or outside spigot. Let it run until the tank is empty.
Close the Valves and Remove the Garden Hose
Once the tank is empty, it’s time to close the valves and remove the garden hose. Start with the valve at the bottom of the tank and then move on to the valve at the top. Once both valves are closed, you can disconnect the garden hose and put it away.
Turn on the Water Heater
The last thing you need to do is turn on the water heater. First, turn on the gas supply and relight any pilot lights that may have gone out. Once that’s done, you can turn the power to your water heater (reconnecting any fuses or circuit breakers you disconnected earlier). And that’s it. You’ve successfully drained your whirlpool water heater. So now you’re ready for whatever comes your way – whether it’s a big move or just the winter months.
How do you drain a water heater without a floor drain?
If you don’t have a floor drain, you can still drain your water heater by using a garden hose:
- Turn off the power or gas supply to the unit.
- Open the drain valve and attach one end of the garden hose to the valve. Place the other end of the hose in an area where the water can safely drain. Once the water has drained, close the valve and remove the hose.
- Turn on a hot water faucet elsewhere in your home to help alleviate any pressure that may have built up in your system.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
1. How do you flush a Whirlpool electric water heater?
To flush a Whirlpool electric water heater, you’ll need to turn off the power to the unit first. Then, open the drain valve and allow the water to drain until it runs clear. Once the water has drained, you can close the valve and turn the power back on to the unit. Finally, open a hot water faucet elsewhere in your home to help alleviate any pressure that may have built up in your system.
2. How do you open a water heater drain valve?
To open a water heater drain valve, you’ll need first to locate the valve. The valve is usually located near the bottom of the water heater. Once you’ve found the valve, turn it clockwise to open it.
3. How do you bleed a Whirlpool water heater?
If you need to bleed a Whirlpool water heater, you’ll first need to turn off the power or gas supply to the unit. Then, open the drain valve and allow the water to drain until it runs clear. Once the water has drained, close the valve and turn on a hot water faucet elsewhere in your home. Finally, turn the power or gas back on to the unit. Ensure there are no leaks in the valve once it has been closed.
4. What are the steps for draining an electric water heater?
First, turn off the power to your electric water heater. Next, open the drain valve located at the bottom of the unit. Allow the water to drain until the water runs clear. Finally, close the drain valve and turn the power on again.
5. How long does it take to drain a 40-gallon water heater?
It will take approximately 20-60 minutes to drain a 40-gallon water heater. However, your specific time may vary depending on the gallon size of your unit and the availability of water pressure in your home. If you have any concerns, it’s always best to consult with a professional before attempting to drain your water heater.
6. Does an electric water heater need to be drained?
Electric water heaters do not need to be drained as often as gas water heaters. However, it’s still a good idea to drain your electric water heater every few months to help prevent sediment buildup. In addition, you may need to drain your electric water heater more often if you have hard water.
7. Where is the drain valve on a water heater?
The drain valve is usually located near the bottom of the water heater. However, the location can vary depending on the make and model of your unit. If you can’t find the drain valve, consult your owner’s manual or call a professional for assistance.
Conclusion
Draining a Whirlpool water heater is a simple process that can be completed in a few easy steps. Following the instructions above, you can easily drain your water heater and help prevent sediment buildup. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to consult with a professional before attempting to drain your water heater.
