Answer:

• Most experts recommend flushing (draining and flushing out sediment) your storage-tank water heater about once a year. If you have hard water, heavy mineral content, or you use a lot of hot water, many sources suggest doing it more frequently—approximately every 6 months to every 4 months in hard-water areas. If your system is electric or gas and you notice reduced hot water flow, banging/rumbling noises, or rusty colored water, that’s a sign to flush sooner.

Key points to consider:

• Hard water areas: Sediment and mineral buildup accumulate faster, so twice-yearly or quarterly flushing can help maintain efficiency and prolong the unit’s life.

• Signs you need a flush sooner: Rumbling sounds, rusty water, low hot water volume, or longer heating times. These indicate sediment reduces heat transfer and should be addressed.

• General approach (summary): Turn off power or gas, ensure the water is cool, attach a drain valve to empty the tank, and then flush with clean water to clear sediment before refilling and restoring power. If uncomfortable performing this, hire a professional.

If you’d like, I can tailor these guidelines to your location (hardness of water) and your heater type (gas vs electric; tank size) and provide a step- by-step checklist.