Flushing isn’t just for toilets!
When we talk about flushing, most of us think of toilets. We all know how important that is! But flushing is not only important for toilets. It’s also vital to water heaters! Many homeowners don’t realize that regular maintenance—specifically flushing the tank—is crucial to keeping their system running smoothly. Here’s why water heaters need to be flushed and why December is the perfect time to do it.
Why water heaters need to be flushed
Over time, minerals such as calcium and magnesium, commonly found in hard water, settle at the bottom of your water heater tank. This sediment can have serious consequences:
Energy Efficiency Loss: According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), sediment buildup in water heaters can reduce efficiency by as much as 16%, leading to increased energy costs.
Added Costs: A 2016 study showed that water heaters with significant sediment could cost an additional $40-$60 per year in energy bills.
Reduced Lifespan: The average lifespan of a traditional water heater is 8 to 12 years, but heavy sediment accumulation can shorten this significantly. Flushing can extend the life of your system by preventing overheating and tank corrosion.
Capacity Loss: The buildup displaces water, reducing the available hot water. For a 50-gallon water heater, up to 10-15% of the tank's volume could be filled with sediment, meaning you have less hot water when you need it most.
Why NOW is the Perfect Time for Flushing
Parties, people, and pleasure
In December, families often host gatherings. From Thanksgiving to Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanza, people are gathering for parties and pleasure. That means more dishwashing, showers, and laundry, increasing the need for hot water. An efficient water heater ensures you won’t run out of hot water during peak usage times.
More hot water usage means it costs you more, especially if your water heater is not working efficiently because it hasn’t been flushed. The DOE reports that water heating accounts for approximately 18% of a household's energy use, making efficiency critical during colder months.
No one wants to have emergency repairs during the holidays
It’s one of Murphy’s Laws that if anything can go wrong, it will. That saying applies to water heaters that haven’t been flushed and get clogged up. You certainly don’t want this to happen the week before Christmas in the middle of cooking for a crowd, hosting a party, or entertaining overnight guests.
The cost of repairing or replacing a water heater in the middle of the holiday – in addition to the costs of gifts, travel, and entertainment can be prohibitive. Getting your water heater flushed NOW prevents those problems.
Real-Life Benefits of Flushing
Energy Savings: A well-maintained water heater can save up to $100 annually on energy bills, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Improved Water Quality: Flushing removes sediment that can cause discolored or foul-smelling water. This is particularly important in areas with hard water, which affects over 85% of U.S. households.
Longer Equipment Life: Regular maintenance can extend the life of your water heater by up to 5 years, delaying costly replacements.
How Often Do Water Heaters Need to Be Flushed?
A water heater should be flushed, cleansing the sediment and scaling that’s built up since its last flushing. If you don’t know when your water heater was flushed last, then it’s definitely due!
Water heaters should be flushed at least once per year, and twice a year if you have extremely hard water.
ServiceOne: We Crush the Flush!
Our plumbers are experts. We crush the flush!
To prevent problems during the holiday season, ServiceOne is providing a free whole-house plumbing inspection (valued at $129) with a scheduled water heater flush.
Not only will we make sure that your water heater is performing at maximum efficiency, but we’ll perform a whole house plumbing inspection checking for problems in your pipes, your toilets, and your sinks!
Don’t delay!
Flushing your water heater is a simple yet impactful task that can save money, improve efficiency, and ensure you have hot water when you need it. With ServiceOne's promotion for a whole house plumbing inspection, NOW is the perfect time to have your water heater flushed!