Routine Flushes
Routine Flushes | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Kodak
A sudden cold shower can ruin an otherwise perfect morning in Kodak. Keep those surprises at bay with HEP’s expert routine flushes that sweep away sediment, rust, and mineral buildup before they can sabotage your tank water heater. Our friendly, certified plumbers arrive on time, treat your home with respect, and leave your system humming like new—helping you save on energy bills while extending the life of your appliance.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to town, consistent maintenance is the simplest way to enjoy dependable hot water year-round. Schedule a quick flush today and feel the difference every time you turn on the tap; HEP takes care of the dirty work so you can stay warm, comfortable, and worry-free.
FAQs
Why is routine flushing important for my tank water heater in Kodak?
Kodak’s municipal and well water sources contain moderate amounts of naturally occurring minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals settle to the bottom of your tank water heater and form a hard layer of sediment. That buildup insulates the burner or heating elements, forcing the unit to work harder, wasting energy, shortening its lifespan, and increasing the risk of premature leaks. A routine flush removes this sediment, restores heating efficiency, maintains consistent water temperature, keeps utility bills lower, and protects the warranty on most major brands.
How often should I have my tank water heater flushed?
Most manufacturers recommend a full flush once every 12 months; however, Kodak’s mineral content and your household’s water usage can affect the schedule. Homes with 3–4 occupants on city water usually benefit from an annual flush, while well-water homes or larger families may need service every 6–9 months. If your heater is still under warranty, follow the interval listed in the owner’s manual to keep that warranty valid.
What signs indicate my water heater needs a flush?
Common warning signs include: rumbling or popping noises when the burner fires, water that takes longer to heat, fluctuating water temperatures, visible rust in hot-water taps, and higher-than-normal energy bills. If you notice any of these symptoms—especially noises that sound like boiling gravel—schedule a flush as soon as possible to prevent element burnout or tank corrosion.
What does a professional flush service include?
Our Kodak plumbing team will: 1) turn off gas or electricity to the unit, 2) shut the cold-water supply valve, 3) attach a food-grade drain hose to the tank’s drain cock, 4) fully drain and safely dispose of the hot water and sediment, 5) briefly open the cold supply to agitate and rinse remaining debris, 6) inspect the anode rod and temperature-pressure relief valve, 7) refill the tank, purge air from the lines, and 8) relight the pilot or restore power. We finish with a leak and performance test so you know the heater is operating at peak efficiency.
Can I flush my water heater myself or should I hire a plumber?
A handy homeowner can perform a basic drain-and-fill, but many Kodak residents prefer a licensed plumber for three reasons: safety, thoroughness, and warranty protection. Water in the tank can exceed 120 °F and cause scalds. Improperly opening the drain valve or failing to fully vent the system may damage the liner or controls. A professional has the tools to break up stubborn sediment, replace worn anode rods, and verify gas or electrical connections. Most manufacturers also require proof of professional maintenance if you need to file a warranty claim.
How long does a routine flush take and will it affect my hot water supply?
A standard flush on a 40- to 50-gallon tank takes about 45-60 minutes, including inspection and relighting. During that time the water heater is offline, so you won’t have hot water. After the tank is refilled, it generally needs 15–30 minutes to reheat, depending on capacity and energy source. We schedule appointments at your convenience—morning, lunchtime, or late afternoon—so the downtime has minimal impact on your household routine.