Flushing your water heater is one of the smartest home maintenance tasks you can do—it keeps your hot water running efficiently, prevents costly breakdowns, and helps your heater last years longer. Whether you have a traditional tank or a modern tankless model, mineral buildup and sediment are real threats. In this guide, you’ll find simple, practical instructions for both types, expert tips, the best flush kits, a buyer’s checklist, and answers to the most common questions.
Quick Picks: Best Water Heater Flush Kits & Accessories
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Best Overall:
My PlumbingStuff Tankless Water Heater Flushing Kit – All-in-one kit for tankless heaters, works with all brands. -
Best for Tank Models:
Camco Water Heater Tank Rinser – Fast, affordable way to clear tank sediment with a simple garden hose. -
Best Premium:
Eccotemp EZ-Flush System Descaler Kit – Powerful commercial kit for severe scale or annual maintenance.
Why Should You Flush Your Water Heater?
- Improves efficiency – Removes scale and sediment, allowing your heater to work less and save energy.
- Prevents clogs and damage – Sediment buildup can block pipes, ruin heating elements, and shorten the unit’s lifespan.
- Restores water pressure – Flushing clears out blockages and restores steady, strong flow.
- Reduces noise – Popping or rumbling sounds are caused by trapped sediment; flushing quiets your heater.
- Keeps warranty valid – Many manufacturers require regular maintenance for full coverage.
How Often Should You Flush Your Water Heater?
- Tank Models: Once a year for most homes, every 6 months for hard water areas.
- Tankless Models: Every 12 months is ideal, but every 6 months if you notice flow problems or live in a hard water region.
What You Need: Water Heater Flushing Checklist
- Flush kit (for tankless) or tank rinser (for tank models)
- 5-gallon bucket
- Hose (garden hose or flush kit hose)
- White vinegar or commercial descaler (for tankless)
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Gloves and old towels
- User manual for your specific heater
How to Flush a Traditional Tank Water Heater
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Turn Off Power or Gas
Switch off the breaker (electric) or turn the gas valve to “pilot” or “off.” -
Shut Off Water Supply
Turn off the cold water inlet valve at the top of the tank. -
Connect a Hose to the Drain Valve
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Run the hose to a floor drain, driveway, or safe outdoor spot. -
Open the Drain Valve
Slowly open the valve and let water flow out. Open a nearby hot water tap to help air move through and drain the tank faster. -
Flush Out Sediment
Once drained, briefly open the cold water valve to stir up any remaining sediment, then drain again. Repeat until water runs clear. -
Close the Drain Valve and Remove the Hose
Tighten the valve and remove the hose. -
Refill and Restart
Close any opened faucets, turn on the cold water supply, and let the tank fill. Once full, restore power or relight the gas. -
Check for Leaks and Test
Run hot water at a tap and check all connections for leaks.
How to Flush a Tankless Water Heater
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Turn Off Power and Gas
Switch off power to the unit and close the gas valve if applicable. -
Shut Off Water Valves
Close both cold water inlet and hot water outlet valves. -
Attach Flush Kit Hoses to Service Ports
Use the flush kit to connect hoses to the service ports (blue for cold, red for hot). -
Prepare the Solution
Fill a bucket with 2–3 gallons of white vinegar or descaler. -
Run the Pump
Place the submersible pump in the solution and circulate it through the unit for 45–60 minutes to dissolve scale. -
Flush with Clean Water
Rinse the unit by circulating clean water for 5–10 minutes. -
Disconnect Hoses and Restore System
Remove hoses, close service ports, and reopen main water valves. -
Restart Power or Gas
Restore power, reopen gas valve, and test for hot water at the tap.
Note: Always follow your water heater’s manual for model-specific steps and safety.
Best Water Heater Flush Kits: Reviews
My PlumbingStuff Tankless Water Heater Flushing Kit
- Complete kit: pump, hoses, bucket, descaler—ready for annual tankless maintenance
- Works with all major brands (Rinnai, Rheem, Navien, Noritz, Takagi, and more)
- Simple, reusable, and easy for first-timers
Final Verdict: The easiest, most reliable way to keep your tankless unit running strong.
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Camco Water Heater Tank Rinser
- Attaches to any garden hose—powerful spray blasts sediment from the bottom of tank models
- Fast, simple, and budget-friendly
- Improves heater efficiency and extends tank life
Final Verdict: The must-have tool for anyone with a traditional tank water heater.
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Eccotemp EZ-Flush System Descaler Kit
- Heavy-duty pump, pro-grade hoses, industrial descaler
- Ideal for homes with very hard water or severe scale buildup
- Reusable and easy to store between uses
Final Verdict: When you want premium, professional results every time.
See details on Amazon
Comparison Table: Top Flush Kits & Accessories
| Name | Type | Includes | Best For | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| My PlumbingStuff Kit | Tankless | Pump, hoses, bucket, descaler | All tankless heaters | View |
| Camco Rinser | Tank | Rinser wand | Traditional tanks | View |
| Eccotemp EZ-Flush | Tankless | Pro pump, hoses, descaler | Heavy use or hard water | View |
FAQ: Flushing Water Heaters
- Can I flush a water heater myself?
Yes—most homeowners can handle flushing with basic tools and a flush kit or rinser. Always follow safety guidelines and your manual. - What if my heater has never been flushed?
You might see lots of sediment and rusty water at first—repeat the process until water runs clear. - Does flushing fix slow hot water?
It often restores flow and efficiency. If problems persist, check for other plumbing issues. - Is vinegar safe for tankless heaters?
Yes—plain white vinegar is gentle, effective, and safe for annual maintenance. For tough scale, use a commercial descaler. - How long does flushing take?
Most tank heaters can be flushed in under an hour. Tankless flushing usually takes about 60–90 minutes, including setup and rinse.
Conclusion
Flushing your water heater—tank or tankless—is a simple DIY project with big rewards: lower energy bills, fewer breakdowns, and longer appliance life. Grab a flush kit or tank rinser, set aside a little time, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your hot water system is running its best. Make it a yearly habit and keep your home comfortable all year long.