Why You Should Flush Your Water Heater Every Fall

The Overlooked Appliance That Works Hard All Year

Your water heater quietly does its job every day, delivering hot showers, clean dishes, and laundry you can count on. But after a full year of use — especially through the hot North Carolina summer — minerals and sediment build up inside the tank.

Flushing your water heater each fall removes that buildup, improves efficiency, and prevents breakdowns when you need hot water the most. Here’s why it’s one of the smartest maintenance steps you can take.

1. Sediment Slows Heating and Wastes Energy

High Point’s water contains natural minerals that settle at the bottom of your tank. Over time, that layer of sediment forces your water heater to work harder to heat water through the buildup.

The result? Higher utility bills, longer wait times for hot water, and unnecessary wear on the heating elements. A quick annual flush removes that layer, restoring your water heater’s efficiency.

2. Flushing Prevents Rust and Corrosion

Sediment doesn’t just waste energy — it also traps moisture against the metal lining of your tank, speeding up corrosion. That’s one of the main reasons water heaters start to leak as they age.

By flushing once a year, you keep the interior cleaner and prevent that premature rusting. It’s a simple maintenance step that adds years to your system’s lifespan.

3. It Keeps Water Quality High

If you’ve noticed cloudy or discolored hot water, or a faint metallic smell, sediment buildup may be the cause. Minerals and bacteria can settle in the tank and affect water clarity and odor.

Flushing clears those impurities, keeping your household water cleaner and fresher — especially important if you have kids or sensitive skin.

4. Cold Weather Is When Problems Show Up

During the fall and winter months, your water heater has to work harder to keep up with demand. That extra strain can expose weak spots caused by buildup or corrosion.

Doing a preventive flush before the colder months ensures your system is running at its best — reducing the risk of a sudden loss of hot water on a cold morning.

5. A Quick Job with Big Benefits

Most homeowners can flush their water heater in about 30–45 minutes with the right tools and safety steps. However, if your unit hasn’t been flushed in years or you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, call Economy Plumbing.

Our team provides full water heater inspections, flushes, and performance testing to make sure your unit is heating efficiently and safely. We can also check for early warning signs that it’s time for a repair or replacement.

Make It a Fall Habit

Just like changing the air filters in your HVAC system, flushing your water heater every fall should become a yearly routine. It helps your appliance last longer, lowers your energy costs, and keeps your home running smoothly.

When you make it a regular part of your fall maintenance, you’ll rarely face surprises when it comes to your hot water supply.

Stay comfortable all season long. Schedule your annual water heater flush with Economy Plumbing in High Point, NC today.

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Fall Plumbing Checklist – 7 Steps to Prepare Your Home for Cooler Weather