How Flushing Your Water Heater Is Different Than Draining It
Ever cleaned out a junk drawer and found stuff you didn’t even remember owning? That’s kind of what happens inside your water heater—except instead of mystery batteries and expired coupons, it’s mineral buildup and sediment.
While draining your water heater might seem like the fix-all cleanup method, it’s only half the story. Flushing and draining are not the same; they serve different purposes, and knowing the difference can help you get the most out of your system and keep your hot water flowing smoothly.
In this blog, Mason Pro Services breaks down the difference between flushing and draining your water heater, why flushing is essential, and how often you should do it.
Table of Contents
- Water Hardness in Phoenix, AZ: What Residents Should Know
What Does Hard Water Mean for Your Water Heater? - What’s the Difference Between Draining and Flushing a Water Heater?
- Can You Flush a Water Heater Yourself?
- Why Sediment Buildup Is a Problem
- How Often Should You Flush Your Water Heater?
- Benefits of Professional Water Heater Maintenance
- Water Softeners and Filtration Systems: Long-Term Protection
Water Softeners
Whole-Home Water Filtration - Schedule Your Water Heater Flush with Mason Pro Services
Water Hardness in Phoenix, AZ: What Residents Should Know
If you live in the Phoenix metro area, you’re dealing with some of the hardest water in the country. Hard water is classified based on mineral content: anything under 75 parts per million (ppm) is considered soft, 75 to 150 ppm falls into the moderately hard range, 150 to 300 ppm is labeled as hard, and readings over 300 ppm are categorized as very hard.
According to city water quality reports, the average water hardness in Phoenix ranges from 158 to 344 parts per million (ppm).
What does hard water mean for your water heater?
- More frequent sediment buildup: Hard water means more minerals that settle in your tank.
- Higher energy costs: The more scale that builds up, the harder your system works to heat water.
- Increased risk of breakdowns: Water heaters in Phoenix often wear out faster if not properly maintained.
This is why homeowners in the Valley of the Sun need to be especially proactive with water heater maintenance. Flushing your water heater and investing in water treatment solutions are two of the best ways to fight back against the effects of Phoenix’s hard water.
What’s the Difference Between Draining and Flushing a Water Heater?
At first glance, draining and flushing your water heater might sound like the same process, but they serve very different purposes. Think of draining like emptying a cup into the sink, while flushing is more like washing the cup.
Draining a water heater simply means emptying the tank of water. This is typically done by turning off the power or gas supply, connecting a hose to the drain valve (located at the bottom of the tank), then opening the valve to allow the water to flow out.
Flushing a water heater, on the other hand, is a more thorough process. It involves draining the tank and then flushing it with fresh water under pressure to dislodge and remove built-up sediment, minerals, and debris that settle at the bottom over time.
In short, draining removes water. Flushing removes sediment, and that makes all the difference.
Can You Flush a Water Heater Yourself?
While some homeowners choose to flush their water heaters themselves, it’s not always as simple as it seems. A proper flush requires shutting off water and power, safely handling hot components, and ensuring all sediment is fully cleared without damaging the tank.
If done incorrectly, you could damage the unit or miss hidden buildup that continues to cause issues.
That’s why leaving it to professionals like Mason Pro Services is a smart idea. Our experienced technicians will inspect your water heater, flush it thoroughly, and check for any signs of wear or corrosion, giving you peace of mind and reliable hot water all year.
Why Sediment Buildup Is a Problem
Water in Arizona, especially the Phoenix metro area, is known for being “hard,” meaning it contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals settle at the bottom of your water heater, forming a thick layer of sediment.
This sediment buildup causes several issues:
- Reduced efficiency: Sediment creates an insulating layer between the burner and the water, meaning it takes more energy to heat the water.
- Noisy operation: A rumbling or popping sound often indicates that sediment is interfering with normal heating.
- Shortened lifespan: Excessive sediment can cause overheating, corrosion, and even a tank failure.
- Clogged valves and reduced water pressure: Debris can block the drain valve or pipes, affecting water flow throughout your home.
Flushing your water heater helps remove this buildup before it becomes a major problem.
How Often Should You Flush Your Water Heater?
Mason Pro Services recommends flushing your water heater at least once per year. More frequent flushes—every 6 to 9 months—may be beneficial in local communities with hard water.
If you notice any of the following signs, it’s likely time for a flush:
- Water takes longer to heat or runs out quickly.
- You hear strange noises coming from the tank.
- Your hot water has a rusty or cloudy appearance.
- There’s a noticeable drop in water pressure.
Regular flushing can improve performance, lower energy bills, and extend the life of your unit.
Benefits of Professional Water Heater Maintenance
Scheduling a professional water heater flush as part of your annual home maintenance brings a range of benefits:
- Improved energy efficiency and lower utility bills.
- Longer lifespan of your water heater.
- Fewer repairs or unexpected breakdowns.
- Cleaner, better-quality hot water.
Water Softeners and Filtration Systems: Long-Term Protection
While regular flushing is essential to water heater maintenance, installing a water softener or filtration system is another way to reduce the burden on your water heater.
Mason Pro Services can install and maintain a variety of water treatment solutions tailored to Arizona’s hard water conditions. Ask us about integrating a water softener or filtration system with your plumbing to enhance your water quality and protect your water heater and other plumbing systems.
Water Softeners
A water softener works by removing hard minerals like calcium and magnesium from your water before it enters your plumbing system. This dramatically reduces the amount of scale and sediment that builds up inside your water heater and other appliances.
Benefits of a water softener include:
- Less frequent flushing and maintenance of your water heater.
- Longer lifespan for your water heater and other water-based appliances.
- Cleaner dishes and softer laundry.
- Reduced scale buildup on faucets and showerheads.
Whole-Home Water Filtration
In addition to a softener, a whole-home water filtration system can help remove sediment, chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities from your water. This not only protects your appliances but also improves the taste and quality of the water throughout your home.
Together, softeners and filters act as the first line of defense, helping to keep your water heater cleaner for longer.
Schedule Your Water Heater Flush with Mason Pro Services
Don’t wait for cold showers or a surprise breakdown to give your water heater the attention it needs. A simple flush could save you hundreds of dollars in repair or replacement costs and keep your system operating efficiently for years to come. Additionally, installing a water quality system can fortify your water heater against hard water and sediment issues.
Mason Pro Services proudly serves homeowners across the Phoenix Metro area, including cities like Chandler, Apache Junction, and Glendale, with expert plumbing, heating, and cooling services. Call 602-207-8951 or request service online today to schedule your professional water heater flush and protect your investment.