Annual Flushes
Annual Flushes | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Sharps Chapel
Give your home in Sharps Chapel the gift of effortless hot water with HEP’s annual flushes. Our experts clear away the sediment and mineral buildup that lurk at the bottom of your tank water heater, helping it heat faster, use less energy, and last years longer. You’ll notice quieter operation, more consistent temperatures, and lower utility bills—all in about the time it takes to enjoy a cup of coffee.
Scheduling a yearly flush means fewer surprise breakdowns and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your system is running at peak efficiency. From friendly reminders to turnkey service, HEP handles everything, so you can simply turn on the tap and enjoy reliable hot water day after day. Book your flush today and keep comfort flowing in Sharps Chapel.
FAQs
Why should I have my tank-style water heater flushed every year?
Sediment—mainly calcium, magnesium, sand, and rust—settles at the bottom of your tank over time. In Sharps Chapel our hard well and municipal water accelerate this buildup. An annual flush removes the sediment so the burner or heating elements can transfer heat efficiently, lowers energy use, restores hot-water capacity, prevents premature tank corrosion, and keeps your manufacturer’s warranty valid.
What exactly is included in your annual water-heater flushing service?
Our technician will: 1) shut off gas or electricity and the cold-water supply; 2) attach a certified drain hose to the tank’s spigot and fully drain the unit; 3) open the cold-water valve in short bursts to rinse out remaining sediment; 4) inspect and test the temperature-pressure relief (TPR) valve; 5) check the anode rod for corrosion; 6) refill, purge air, and relight or re-energize the heater; and 7) verify temperature settings, leaks, and safety devices before leaving.
How long does the flush take and will it interrupt my water service?
Most standard 40- to 50-gallon tank flushes take 45–60 minutes, start to finish. Larger or heavily sedimented tanks can run 90 minutes. You’ll be without hot water while we work, but cold-water service to the rest of the home remains on. Once the tank is refilled, hot water typically returns within 20–30 minutes for gas units and 60–90 minutes for electric models.
Can a yearly flush really lower my energy bills?
Yes. A ½-inch layer of sediment acts like insulation between the burner and water, forcing the heater to run longer. Department of Energy studies show efficiency losses of 12–25 % in unflushed tanks. Removing that layer lets the unit heat faster, saving an estimated $20–$50 per year for the average Sharps Chapel household.
Are there warning signs that my tank needs to be flushed sooner than a year?
Listen and look for: rumbling, popping, or banging noises when the burner fires; fluctuating water temperatures; rusty or cloudy hot water; reduced hot-water volume; and higher utility bills. If you notice any of these, schedule a service right away—excess sediment may already be damaging the tank.
What does the service cost and how do I schedule it in Sharps Chapel?
A standard annual flush for most residential tanks is $129, which includes sediment removal, safety checks, and basic parts such as a new drain-valve washer if needed. Larger commercial units or heavily scaled tanks may be slightly higher. Call our Sharps Chapel office at (865) 555-0123 or book online 24/7; we offer same-week appointments and send a text when the technician is on the way.