DRAIN THE SEDIMENT FROM YOUR WATER HEATER Don't you hate it when you're all soaped up in a nice, steamy shower and you run out of hot water? Don't blame it all on the person who showered before you, because the real culprit could be sludge in your water heater. WHAT ? Flush the sediment from your water heater. WHEN ? Once a year. Now is a good time. WHY ? The sediment acts as an insulator and reduces the amount of heat transfer to the water. The sediment also takes up space in the tank, reducing the amount of hot water available and in some cases, reducing hot water pressure.

HOW ? There is a drain valve on the side of your water heater, near the bottom. It looks like a typical outdoor faucet -- there is a handle and a threaded spout. Attach a hose to the drain valve and direct it to a floor drain. [ Larger Image ] Open the drain valve until the water runs clear. Depending on how long it takes, you may choose to drain the sediment more or less frequently. TIPS   The water you are draining is extremely hot. Be very careful.     While it isn't mandatory, it's a good idea to shut off the heating supply. With an electric water heater, this means shutting off the circuit breakers or pulling the fuses. With a gas water heater, turn the gas valve to the pilot position. With an oil-fired water heater, turn off the power to the burner.