How Often Should You Flush Your Water Heater?
4 min read
Most homeowners never flush their water heater. The result: sediment quietly accumulates on the tank bottom, reducing efficiency and cutting years off the unit's life. A $0 annual task prevents a $1,200–$3,500 replacement.
What sediment actually does
Hard water minerals — primarily calcium and magnesium — settle at the bottom of your tank over time. This layer of sediment forces your heater to work harder to heat water, increases energy bills, causes rumbling and popping sounds, and eventually cracks the tank lining leading to leaks.
Recommended flush schedule
Signs your water heater needs attention now
- Rumbling, popping, or cracking sounds during heating cycles
- Hot water that runs out faster than it used to
- Rust-colored or metallic-tasting hot water
- Visible rust or moisture around the base of the tank
- Unit is over 10 years old and has never been flushed
When to replace instead of flush
If your water heater is over 12 years old, has visible rust on the tank body, or has a history of repeated repairs, flushing may not be enough. A replacement becomes more cost-effective than continued maintenance at that point.
Water heater flush included in Pro Property plan
HomeShield Pro's Plus plan includes a full water heater flush and inspection at every visit — no scheduling, no forgetting.
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