How Often Should You Flush Your Water Heater?
Sediment builds up over time — here's how it affects performance and what to do about it.
ST SMKO Team 2026-05-18 3 min read
Minerals naturally present in tap water settle at the bottom of your tank over time. That sediment layer acts like a blanket between the heating element and the water, making the unit work harder to reach the same temperature.
A yearly flush is a reasonable default for most households, though homes with harder water may need it more often. Rumbling or popping sounds, and hot water that takes longer to arrive, are common signs a flush is overdue.
A flush is a straightforward maintenance task, but if you're not comfortable draining and refilling the tank yourself, it's worth having it done by a qualified technician.