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Author:
jessicad7188 (GA)
I need advice on how to deal with our hot water heater. We moved into our house 3 years ago. When we moved in it had been vacant for a few years before that. So I know its been at least 6 years since our water heater was flushed out. We are experiencing extremely brown, rusty smelling hot water so of course through a Google search I read and researched on how to flush out and clean my hot water heater. But in further research I read that it may not be a good idea to do this if it hasnt been drained in a long time because it could cause leaks. I am now debating if I should do it or not. Either way, something has to be done because I of course do not like showering in dirty brown water. I would prefer not to replace it. Should I go for flushing it out first, or should I just leave it alone and replace the whole thing?
::edit::
I have now tried to flush my hot water heater. I read multiple instructions, researched, and read my water heaters manual before doing this, so I do believe I did the procedure right. However, I was not able to get any water to drain through the hose. Also the pressure relief valve had a but of corroding on it, and when I opened it it became very loose. Also it started dripping yucky brown fluid out of it but that didn't last very long. I disconnected the hose and returned my water and gas all back to its original state. At this point the pressure relief valve is very wiggly and limp still but no longer leaking. Now, the water coming out of our faucets is visually much more brown. I think I made it worse, and I Was not even able to get it to drain! Any advice on where to go from here?
Edited 1 times.
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Author:
packy (MA)
flushing it will cause leaks???
I wonder which genius thought that up?
flush it and don't worry...
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Author:
jessicad7188 (GA)
Here is the article I read that suggested this. I have to say the task is a bit intimidating since I dont know much about it, so I guess I am taking all angles seriously because I am a bit weary of blowing up or breaking the heater or something like that. Hah I know, I just want to be safe and smart!
[www.wral.com]
I am leaning towards trying it. If I do mess it up I will know for sure that I need to replace my heater. haha.
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Author:
packy (MA)
I fail to see the logic in that article.
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Author:
hj (AZ)
Flushing it will NOT cause leaks, but neither will it cure the problem, because something is rusting, and unless it is a dielectric nipple on top of the tank, then it is the tank itself. In any case, whatever is rusting will continue to rust even after you drain the tank. Let's see, I have had 2 tanks in the past 24 years, and NEITHER of them were ever drained or flushed, and they did not produce brown water.
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Author:
jessicad7188 (GA)
Do you think it would at least clear up the water temporarily? I am leaning towards replacing it. I think either way I have decided to try flushing it. Thank you for that input though, that makes it sound like I will need to investigate further than just flushing it out. Maybe I will call a plumber to look at it.
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Author:
m & m (MD)
If you are on well water, flushing the water heater would be in order. It acts as a settling basin for any suspended solids produced by the well. That may also be why you are not getting any flow out the drain valve- it may be stopped up.
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Author:
jessicad7188 (GA)
Thanks for the reply. Should I be worried about the pressure relief valve leaking and then becoming all wiggly? It locks in place still but it still has some give to it which makes me uncomfortable. Dangit, I really should call a plumber I guess. I'm cheap though and would like to do it myself if I can!
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Author:
hj (AZ)
It MIGHT improve it temporarily, such as overnight, but it depends on where and how badly it is rusting. If it is in the connections on top of the tank, then flushing will do nothing to help that.
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Author:
hj (AZ)
quote; I'm cheap though and would like to do it myself if I can!
In that case do it yourself, because cheap customers always want a discount. I had an "agent" last week who told her client to "only give him, (meaning me), $150.00 when he is done". I accepted it and from now on I am "not available" to that agent.
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Author:
jessicad7188 (GA)
Hmmm I think you are jumping to conclusions, I dont really negotiate prices with companies which is why I say Id like to do it myself if I can. Not that it matters.
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Author:
bernabeu (SC)
assuming you are on 'city water'
turn electric or gas to heater off
attach hose to drain with end of hose OUTDOORS and weighted down
do NOT shut off cold water supply to heater
open drain valve and flush heater under FULL PRESSURE until water runs clear - may take awhile
close valve & remove hose
turn electric or gas back on
good luck, if water turns brown again start saving for new heater
==============================================
"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638
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