3 Practical Approaches to Deal with a Clogged Water Heater Drain Valve
While missing your hot shower routine is not a matter of life and death, a clogged drain valve in your water heater system can be a nuisance. It is especially the case if you consider the convenience that a water heater drain valve offers when it is time to drain for repairs. That said, unchecked lime or iron build-up can clog the drain valve and impede the ease of flow of hot water. In extreme cases, chunks of debris cab jam the opening of the drain valve and prevent water flow entirely. Therefore, if you notice that hot water trickles out or doesn't flow at all, then that is a sign that you have a clogged drain valve in the water heater. This article highlights easy steps that will help to unclog the valve.
1. Stomp the Drain Hose
Although it might sound like an aggressive way to handle a clogged drain valve, drain hoses are made from robust material that can withstand some stomping. The action is only effective if you keep a distance of about 2 feet from the drain valve. By stepping on the drain hose, you force air bubble along with the tube and into the tank which consequently unclogs the valve. It is vital to understand that you might need to step on the drain hose repeatedly because the clog might recur if the tank is full of debris. Repeating the action several times ensures that you send several stronger air bubbles to unclog the valve completely. While this method works most of the time, it can take longer than it is worth if you are dealing with excess debris.
2. Back-Flush Water Heater
A much less energy consuming approach to dealing with a clogged water heater drain valve is to back-flush the water heater. For this procedure, you need a two-sided female coupling washer hose. You require the washer hose to thread onto the drain hose as well as the washtub faucet. With the valve off, attach a faucet to the drain hose and then follow this by threading the washer hose onto the drain hose faucet and a washtub faucet. Once done, turn on the washtub faucet and allow water pressure to build up. When you have enough pressure in the hose, turn on the drain valve to allow water into the tank at high pressure. It will force the debris back, thereby enabling you to drain the water heater tank quickly.
3. Replace with a Ball Valve
If the above methods fail at unclogging the drain valve, then you might have a defective valve. The best way to address the issue is to hire a plumber to inspect the valve for defects. If faulty, then replacing the valve with a ball valve is appropriate. It is because ball valves are bigger than standard drain valves and prevent future clogging. It is considered the best solution for a clogged water heater drain valve since it is proactive rather than reactive.
For more information on blocked drains and valves reach out to a local plumber.