How to Drain a Water Heater From the Basement
- 1). Turn off the power supply to the water heater. If it is an electric water heater, locate the main switch near or on the heater and unplug the unit from the outlet. If it is a gas water heater turn the gas down to "Pilot" mode.
- 2). Turn the cold water valve control until the valve is closed.
- 3). Connect one end of the garden hose to the drain valve located on the bottom section of the water heater.
- 4). Place the other end of the garden hose over the basement floor drain. If you do not have a drain, place the other end in the large bucket but note that you may need to close the drain valve when the bucket is full to empty the bucket before resuming the draining.
- 5). Verify the hose is secure. Before proceeding, go through the building and turn on the hot water control of any faucets. This includes bathtubs, sinks and any other faucet with a hot water control.
- 6). Slowly open the drain valve. Monitor the flow of water out of the hose. If the hose becomes hot to the touch, slowly close the drain and allow it to cool before continuing. Close the valve as needed if you need to dump the bucket of water.
- 7). Turn on the cold water valve on the water heater if the water flow from the hose stops. This will help free up any clogs caused by sediment.
- 8). Verify the drain valve is closed and the cold water valve is also closed before removing the hose. Turn off any faucets in the building to complete the draining.
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