How Do You Clean Out A Gas Hot Water Heater?
Cleaning out a gas hot water heater is basically a matter of flushing the tank to remove sediments that have built up on the bottom of your tank. If you use well water, these sediments may be mostly dirt and grit; if you are hooked up to city water, the sediments may be calcium and lime, but grit in the city water lines will also build up in a hot water tank over time. Cleaning your gas hot water tank is a “tankless” job, but one which should be performed at least every year or two, depending on how much sediment is in your water supply. Using your pliers, turn off the gas to your hot water heater. This involves turning the valve (lever) on the gas line perpendicular to the line. Turn the level 1/4 turn clockwise to shut off the gas. (Note: Do not shut off the gas if you do not know how to relight the pilot on your heater. Plan to have a gas-company employee or another knowledgeable person come to your home and show you how to relight your pilot.) Turn off the cold water inlet at the t