Should I flush my water heater myself?
Last reviewed November 1, 2026 by Jordan Reeves
Thrively says no: call a licensed plumber. Rheem and A.O. Smith both call for flushing about once a year, but the job means draining very hot water around gas or electrical parts, so we don't publish steps for it.
How often: About once a year. Rheem suggests about every six months with hard water.
This one is for a pro
Who to call: a licensed plumber
It means draining very hot water around gas or electrical parts, and Rheem warns that flushing an older tank can start a leak.
Stop and call
Call a licensed plumber: once a year, or sooner if your water runs out faster or the tank rumbles. Ask them to check the unit while they're there.
Why it matters
- Rheem says sediment insulates the tank, which lengthens heating cycles and raises energy use. It also says flushing an older unit yourself can cause leaks.
- CPSC says water at 150 F can cause third-degree burns in most adults in 2 seconds, and water at 140 F in 6 seconds.
Sources
Never forget this one.
Thrively keeps track of the jobs your home needs and tells you when each one is due.
Download on the App StoreFree to download. iPhone and iPad.
See the full home maintenance schedule, with sources
Related guides
How to check a toilet for a silent leak
Put a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank, wait 10 minutes without flushing, and look in the bowl. If the color has reached the bowl, the tank is leaking. EPA suggests checking at least once a year.
Who should clean my gutters?
A gutter cleaning service. It's ladder work, and we don't publish steps for jobs that need a ladder. NC State Extension says to inspect gutters yearly and after major weather, and you can do much of that from the ground.