Water Heaters - Draining accident please help
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big10gonz
05-26-09, 04:02 PM
I attempted to drain my water heater to change the heating element and did not realize that it had not completely drained. when i took the element out, water went everywhere and got onto the thermostat and the other parts of the heater. when i do get the heater drained and am able to replace the element will i find that the other parts have gone bad or is there anything else i may need to look out for? I also need some ideas on how to completely drain the heater since it is not draining properly. --- thank you
Just Bill
05-26-09, 04:40 PM
You should be OK, but use a hairdryer or paint remover gun(low setting) to dry things off. Make sure all is dry before turning things on. If it works, you lucked out if not, you know why.
big10gonz
05-26-09, 05:06 PM
that's kind of what i figured. it happened last night so i've given it all day to dry.
sminker
05-26-09, 05:24 PM
open the bottom drain and hose it away then pop the relief (silver lever in the UP position) and let the air push the balance of the water out
big10gonz
05-26-09, 05:27 PM
when i do this, do i need to have a hot water faucet open in the house as well?
lefty
05-26-09, 05:36 PM
If you open the T&P valve, there is no reason to open another faucet in the house as well. The T&P valve being open will allow air into the WH and let the water drain.
Gunguy45
05-26-09, 05:44 PM
The only problem with opening the T&P is that it may not seal again after you get done. If its been tested yearly as it should be, prob not a problem. If it hasn't been tested...I'd open a faucet instead.
The non-testing probably won't prevent it from functioning when required, but using it for one time draining may mean it will need to be replaced if it leaks.
The non-testing probably won't prevent it from functioning when required, but using it for one time draining may mean it will need to be replaced if it leaks.
furd
05-26-09, 11:05 PM
If you haven't been testing the safety valve on a regular basis then just buy a new one. They have several different prices depending on the packaging so buy one with the least amount of packaging for about $5.00. Remove the old valve while draining the tank and install the new one when you are ready to refill the tank.
Temperature and pressure safety valves are too important and too inexpensive to leave to chance. I keep a spare on hand in case it fails during routine testing.
Temperature and pressure safety valves are too important and too inexpensive to leave to chance. I keep a spare on hand in case it fails during routine testing.