At some point in a water heater’s lifetime, it will need to be replaced with a newer model. This can be because of wear and tear or to simply upgrade to a more contemporary version.
The first step is choosing a new water heater which can be confusing enough. But, even after it has been installed, there are further factors to consider.
After your new water has been installed, it is important to run water for a certain period of time. This helps to flush out any lingering debris or sediment that may have accumulated in the water during the installation process.
This is often referred to as “flushing the water heater” and is necessary to ensure that the water flowing through your pipes and appliances is clean and free of any contaminants.
The amount of time that you should run water after installing a new water heater can vary depending on the type of water heater and the specific installation process.
For instance, older homes that may have corroded pipes may require a longer period of flushing the water compared to newer builds.
If you’re unsure of how long to run water for after a new water heater installation, we’re here to help.
In today’s article, we are going to guide you through the process of flushing the water heater and how long you should do so. By the end of this post, your water should be clean and safe to use once again.
Why Run Water After a New Water Heater Installation?
It is necessary to run water after a new water heater has been installed because it helps to flush out any debris, sediment, or other contaminants that may have gathered during the installation of the heater.
During the installation process, small particles of certain materials, such as solder or flux, can creep into the heater’s water supply.
This can create problems with the unit’s operation and when consumed, this water could pose some serious health risks.
By flushing the water heater after installation, these contaminants can be removed, ensuring the water that flows through the pipes and appliances returns to a clean, safe state without any harmful particles.
As we touched upon above, this is particularly important in older buildings where the pipes may have become corroded over time. When flushing the system, buildup that may have accumulated can be removed.
As well as cleaning the water system, running the water can also help ensure that the water heater unit is adequately filled and no air pockets remain in the water or system.
This can help prevent possible damage to the heating elements, ensuring the unit operates sufficiently. In turn, this will also ensure that the water heater provides you with hot water whenever you require it.
Running water after a new water heater has been installed fundamentally ensures the unit operates efficiently and safely, so the water supply is clean and safe to use.
How Long Should You Run Water For After A New Water Heater Installation?
As we have discussed, it is a common practice to run water after a new water heater installation.
The best method is to run cold and hot water to flush out the lines and any contaminants that may be lurking in the pipes.
One common query is whether running the water will affect the water pressure.
However, unless the water pressure setting has been tweaked somewhat, having a new tank installed should not affect the water pressure whatsoever, including the running of water soon afterward.
It is typically recommended that you run water through your new water heater system immediately after it has been installed to remove any leftover contaminants and debris.
This process should be done before you start using the water heater for yourself and your family.
The amount of time you should run the water tends to be determined by the specific installation process used, as well as the type of water heater.
Generally speaking, it is suggested that the cold and hot water are run for at least 10 to 15 minutes after installation.
Start with the cold for 10 to 15 minutes and move on to the hot water for the same period of time.
If you live in a region that has hard water or your home is old with possibly corroded pipes, then you may need to run the water for longer.
It is also recommended to open all faucets simultaneously whilst the water is on. This fast flow will help flush out as much, if not all, of the loose debris lingering in the pipes.
All in all, you should run the water until it is fully clear. If it is already clear, let it flow for at least 10 to 15 minutes, if not longer.
It is also recommended that this process is performed once or twice a year as a form of preventative maintenance. This will help ensure your pipes are free of contaminants and your water is safe to use.
How To Run Water After Having A New Water Heater
Here’s how to flush your pipes properly after having a new water heater installed:
Start by removing all aerator screens from faucets and fixtures and then store them in a container.
Start flushing the plumbing from the closest faucet to the service line that enters your property.
On all floors, open all cold water faucets, including tubs and outdoor spigots.
Let the cold water run for 10 to 30 minutes, and flush each toilet two to three times.
Turn off faucets in the opposite order they were turned on, then flush the hot water for at least 10 to 15 minutes.
Clean and reattach the aerators, and replace any that can’t be cleaned.
Turn on the cold water for one minute at each faucet after hot water flushing is complete.
In Summary
Running water after a new water heater installation is very important to flush out any debris from the installation process.
We hope this guide has helped you and your water is now clean and safe to use.
Hi everyone! My name is Jason, and I am the founder of HeaterWise.com. Having run my own business as a Heating Engineer for 21 years, I have picked up a few things along the way.
I wanted to create Heater Wise as a place where anyone could come, from far and wide, to find the information that they need.
I hope you will join us here at Heater Wise, to get started on your own journey, to expand your knowledge, and make the best heating choices for you and your family.
