Water Heater-Cleaning

[barmar]

What's the best way to clean/flush a water heater? Especially a method to flush all the flakes of mineral (lime/calcium, etc) that accumulate in the bottom of the tank. Is there a hose attachment/device that can be used to help? Thanks, B

[jimcol]

I've never done anything more than pull the anode rod, drain the heater, put a regular hose end nozzle on and spray away. (The old fashion nozzle that you you turn one way to turn off and the other way to adjust the spray) The nozzle leaves enough room in the hole for water and debris to discharge from the tank. I know some have made a wand out of 3/8" flex copper crimping one end and drilling holes in the rod. Nozzle works good for me. Jim

[Exnavydiver]

Most camping stores also sell a yellow plastic nozzle and valve for a few bucks. It is flexible and very easy to use. Narrow at the end it has a pretty potent spray.

[BB_TX]

I use a rinse wand from Camping World. Cheap and works well. Stick it in thru the anode hole and a concentrated stream flushes the bottom pretty well.

[Ozz]

However you do it, and good suggestions all, you will get soaked! Wear eye protection.

[kdeiss]

If you have a lot of scale use vinegar 50/50 with water over nite rinse with the wand

[barmar]

Thanks all for your helpful advice--got some good alternatives now!
B

[noneck]

I just did mine, pulled anode rod, allowed to drain completely, using garden hose with spray nozzle just pointed into hole and partially filled and allow to drain several times till it flowed clear without debris...

[ols1932]

quote:Originally posted by barmar

What's the best way to clean/flush a water heater? Especially a method to flush all the flakes of mineral (lime/calcium, etc) that accumulate in the bottom of the tank. Is there a hose attachment/device that can be used to help? Thanks, B

Yes. A rinse wand from Camping World or you can make your own.

Orv