Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. From hot showers to clean dishes and laundry, it runs behind the scenes every day to make life more comfortable. Yet many homeowners forget that water heaters need maintenance too. One of the most important—and often overlooked—tasks is a professional water heater flush.

If you’ve never heard of a water heater flush, you’re not alone. But skipping this simple service can cost you in efficiency, repairs, and even premature replacement. Let’s explore how flushing your water heater can extend its lifespan, save you money, and keep your home running smoothly.

What Is a Water Heater Flush?

A water heater flush is the process of draining your water heater tank and removing built-up sediment and minerals. Over time, especially in Arizona where hard water is common, minerals like calcium and magnesium settle at the bottom of the tank. This creates a layer of sediment that interferes with heating and can eventually damage the system.

A professional water heater flush involves:

• Shutting off the power or gas supply to the heater
• Draining the tank completely
• Flushing the tank with clean water to remove sediment
• Refilling and restarting the system to ensure proper operation

Why Water Heater Flushes Are Essential

1. Extend the Life of Your Water Heater

Sediment buildup forces your water heater to work harder than it should. Over time, this added stress causes wear and tear on components, shortening the system’s lifespan. A yearly flush helps your water heater last as long as possible.

2. Improve Energy Efficiency

When sediment collects at the bottom of the tank, it acts as insulation between the burner (or heating element) and the water. This means your heater has to use more energy to heat the same amount of water, driving up your utility bills. A flush restores efficiency and helps lower monthly costs.

3. Prevent Costly Repairs

Sediment buildup can clog valves, cause strange noises (like banging or popping), and even lead to overheating. Over time, this can damage the tank and force expensive repairs or replacement. A flush prevents these issues before they start.

4. Maintain Consistent Hot Water Supply

If you’ve noticed your hot water running out faster than usual, sediment could be the culprit. It reduces the available space in the tank, meaning less hot water for your family. Flushing restores the tank’s full capacity.

The Pros and Cons of Water Heater Flushes

While water heater flushes are highly recommended, it’s worth considering both the pros and cons:

Pros:

• Extends water heater lifespan
• Improves efficiency and lowers energy bills
• Prevents costly breakdowns and repairs
• Restores hot water supply

Cons:

• Requires professional service for best results
• May not resolve issues in older, heavily corroded tanks
• Needs to be done regularly (once a year is ideal)

The benefits far outweigh the drawbacks—especially when compared to the cost of replacing a water heater years earlier than expected.

How Often Should You Flush Your Water Heater?

Experts recommend flushing your water heater once a year. In areas with especially hard water—like Phoenix—you may need it more frequently. If you’re unsure when your water heater was last serviced, it’s a good idea to schedule a flush soon.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs a Flush

Watch for these red flags that your water heater may already be struggling with sediment buildup:

• Rumbling, banging, or popping sounds
• Cloudy or rusty water
• Inconsistent water temperatures
• Longer heating times
• Reduced hot water supply

If you notice any of these issues, a water heater flush could make a big difference.

Pairing a Flush with Other Plumbing Services

Scheduling a water heater flush is also a great time to tackle other plumbing maintenance tasks, such as:

• Water softener installation to reduce hard water problems
• RO system filter replacements for clean, great-tasting water
• General plumbing inspections to check for leaks or worn fixtures

Taking a proactive approach ensures your entire plumbing system stays in good shape.

Why Choose AC Medics for Water Heater Service?

Water heater flushes are best left to experienced professionals who know how to perform the service safely and effectively. At AC Medics, our plumbing experts handle everything from routine flushes to full water heater replacements. We understand Arizona’s hard water challenges and provide tailored solutions to keep your home running efficiently.

Protect Your Water Heater—and Your Wallet

Don’t let sediment shorten the life of your water heater or drain your bank account with high utility bills. A professional flush is one of the simplest ways to protect your investment and ensure reliable hot water all year long.

Call AC Medics today at 623-266-2660 or visit our website to schedule your water heater flush.

Stay ahead of costly problems and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home’s plumbing system is in expert hands.