Routine Flushes
Routine Flushes | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Apison
Life in Apison is all about comfort and community—until hard-water minerals start clogging your morning routine. Our seasoned plumbers at HEP keep that comfort flowing with routine flushes that scour sediment from your tank water heater, restoring peak efficiency, faster heat-up times, and crystal-clean water. One quick visit clears years of buildup, so you can enjoy quieter operation, lower energy bills, and the peace of mind that comes with a system running like new.
Every flush is performed by licensed, background-checked technicians who treat your home with the respect it deserves. We handle scheduling around your busy day, arrive on time, and leave no mess behind—just piping-hot water you can trust. Call or book online today and discover why Apison homeowners rely on HEP for plumbing maintenance that’s thorough, affordable, and always customer-first.
FAQs
Why does my tank water heater in Apison need routine flushing?
Apison’s municipal and well-water sources carry natural minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Over time these minerals settle to the bottom of your storage tank and form a hard layer of sediment. That sediment forces the burner or heating elements to work harder, shortens the life of the tank, reduces energy efficiency, and can even cause rumbling noises or discoloration in your hot water. A routine flush clears out the sediment, restores efficiency, and helps prevent costly tank corrosion or early failure.
How often should I schedule a tank water heater flush?
For most homes in Apison we recommend an annual flush. If you have very hard water, run a recirculating pump, or operate a larger family household that uses a lot of hot water, every six months is even better. Conversely, if you have a whole-house water softener or filtration system, every 18–24 months may be adequate. A licensed plumber can test your water hardness and inspect the tank to give you a tailored schedule.
What are signs that my water heater needs to be flushed soon?
• Rumbling, popping, or banging sounds when the burner is on • Longer recovery time or hotter than normal tank surface • Fluctuating water temperatures or reduced hot-water volume • Cloudy, rusty, or metallic-tasting hot water • Higher than usual energy bills related to water heating If you notice any of these symptoms, book a flush before the sediment does permanent damage.
What does a professional tank water heater flush involve?
1. We shut off gas or electricity and close the cold-water supply. 2. The tank is drained through a high-flow hose into a safe discharge area. 3. We open the drain valve fully and use high-velocity water or a specialized pump to agitate and dislodge sediment. 4. If needed, we briefly back-flush the tank to break up stubborn mineral layers. 5. The anode rod and temperature-pressure relief valve are inspected. 6. The tank is refilled, power is restored, and the system is tested for leaks and proper temperature. The entire service usually takes about an hour.
Can I flush my water heater myself or should I call a plumber?
A handy homeowner can perform a basic gravity drain, but there are risks. Sediment can clog the drain valve, the water can be scalding hot, and improper shut-down/re-lighting of the gas burner could pose safety hazards. Professionals bring pump-assist equipment, replacement parts, and the know-how to detect issues such as a failing anode rod or incipient leaks. If your heater is under warranty, professional service also keeps the warranty intact.
How long does a routine flush take and will I be without hot water?
A standard flush appointment takes 45–60 minutes. During that time the tank must be drained, so hot water is unavailable. Once the flush is complete and the tank is reheating, you’ll typically have hot water again in another 20–40 minutes for gas heaters and about an hour for electric models. We schedule appointments at times that minimize disruption, and we always inform you before shutting off the supply.