How to Drain Water Heater Tank in RV

Proper RV maintenance is key to ensuring your home-on-wheels is ready for adventure whenever you are. One of the most important, yet often overlooked, tasks is regularly servicing the water heater. Over time, mineral deposits and sediment can build up inside the tank, reducing its efficiency and potentially causing damage. Draining the tank is a simple but vital procedure that helps prevent these issues and prepares your rig for storage.

For many new RV owners, the thought of tinkering with the plumbing system can be daunting. However, learning how to drain water heater tank in RV is a straightforward process that anyone can master. It requires only a few basic tools and a little bit of time. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can perform this essential maintenance task safely and confidently.

Why Draining Your RV Water Heater Is Crucial

Draining your RV’s water heater tank is a critical maintenance task for two main reasons. First, it’s the primary way to remove mineral deposits and sediment that accumulate at the bottom of the tank. This buildup can reduce the heater’s efficiency, slow down water heating, and eventually lead to corrosion and tank failure. Second, it is an essential step for winterizing your RV. Leaving water in the tank during freezing temperatures can cause it to expand and crack the tank, leading to a very expensive replacement. Regular draining extends the life of your water heater and prevents costly damage.

8 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Drain Water Heater Tank in RV

Step 1: Turn Off All Power and Water Sources

Before you do anything else, safety is the top priority. You must turn off all power sources connected to the water heater. This includes the electric heating element switch, which may be located on the water heater itself or on your RV’s main control panel, and the propane gas switch. Failing to turn off the electric element can cause it to burn out in seconds once the tank is empty. Next, turn off the water pump and disconnect your RV from any city water supply. This ensures no new water enters the system while you work.

Step 2: Allow the Water to Cool Down

The water inside your heater tank can be extremely hot and can cause serious burns. After turning off all power sources, you need to let the water cool down completely. To speed up this process, you can open a hot water faucet inside your RV. This will introduce cold water into the tank, helping to lower the temperature more quickly. It is best to wait at least an hour or two to be safe. Do not attempt to drain the tank while the water is still hot.

Step 3: Locate the Water Heater Access Panel

Your RV’s water heater is located on the exterior of the vehicle. Look for a square or rectangular metal panel with vents. This is the access door to your water heater components, including the drain plug and pressure relief valve. Most of these panels have a simple latch or a quarter-turn lock that you can open with your fingers or a flathead screwdriver. Open the panel and familiarize yourself with the components inside before proceeding. You will typically see the gas burner assembly, the drain plug, and the pressure relief valve.

Step 4: Open the Pressure Relief Valve

To allow the water to drain properly, you need to let air into the tank. The easiest way to do this is by opening the pressure relief valve. This valve is located near the top of the water heater tank and has a small metal lever. Place a bucket or container under the valve to catch any water that might spurt out, and carefully flip the lever up. You will hear a hissing sound as the pressure is released and air enters the system. Leave this valve open during the draining process.

Step 5: Remove the Drain Plug

Now you are ready to drain the tank. The drain plug is located at the bottom of the water heater tank. Most RVs use either a plastic plug that can be removed with a socket wrench or a metal plug that contains the anode rod. Anode rods are sacrificial metal rods that help prevent corrosion. Carefully use the appropriate wrench to loosen and remove the drain plug. Be prepared for the water to start flowing out immediately. This is the main step in learning how to drain water heater tank in RV.

Step 6: Flush Out Sediment from the Tank

Once the majority of the water has drained out, it’s a good idea to flush the tank to remove any loose sediment. You can use a specialized tank flushing wand that attaches to a garden hose. Insert the wand into the drain plug opening and turn on the water. Move the wand around inside the tank to dislodge and wash out any mineral deposits or debris that have settled at the bottom. Continue flushing until the water coming out of the drain opening runs clear. This sediment removal is crucial for heater longevity.

Step 7: Inspect and Replace the Anode Rod if Necessary

If your water heater has an anode rod connected to the drain plug, this is the perfect time to inspect it. The purpose of the anode rod is to corrode so that your tank doesn’t. If the rod is more than 75% eaten away, looks very thin, or is coated in heavy calcium deposits, it needs to be replaced. A new anode rod is an inexpensive part that provides essential protection for your water heater tank. Wrap the threads of the new or existing plug with fresh Teflon tape before reinstalling it.

Step 8: Reinstall the Drain Plug and Close Valves

After the tank is completely drained and flushed, you can reinstall the drain plug. Tighten it snugly with your wrench, but be careful not to overtighten, especially if it is a plastic plug. Once the plug is secure, you can close the pressure relief valve by snapping the lever back down into its original position. At this point, the draining process is complete. Your water heater is now empty and ready for winter storage or to be refilled for your next trip.

Benefits of Regular Maintenance

Performing regular maintenance on your water heater provides a range of significant benefits that extend its lifespan and ensure consistent performance. By routinely draining and flushing the tank, you can prevent the buildup of sediment, which can reduce heating efficiency and cause damage over time. Maintenance also helps identify potential issues early, such as leaks or worn-out components, allowing you to address them before they escalate into costly repairs. Additionally, a well-maintained water heater operates more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. Regular care not only keeps your water heater functioning optimally but also provides peace of mind, knowing that your system is reliable and safe to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Drain My RV Water Heater?

It’s a good practice to drain your RV water heater at least twice a year as part of your regular RV maintenance schedule. You should also drain it any time you are winterizing your rig for storage in a cold climate. If you frequently travel in areas with very hard water, you might consider draining and flushing it more often to prevent excessive sediment buildup.

What Is an Anode Rod and Why Is It Important?

An anode rod is a “sacrificial” rod, usually made of magnesium or aluminum, that is screwed into your water heater tank. It protects the steel tank from corrosion through an electrochemical process. The rod corrodes instead of the tank lining. Checking and replacing this rod when it’s depleted is one of the most important things you can do to extend the life of your water heater.

Do All RV Water Heaters Have an Anode Rod?

No, not all RV water heaters use an anode rod. Suburban brand water heaters have a porcelain-lined steel tank and require an anode rod for protection. Atwood brand water heaters, on the other hand, have an aluminum tank that does not require an anode rod, so they just have a simple plastic drain plug. It is important to know which brand you have.

What Happens if I Don’t Drain My Water Heater for Winter?

If you live in a climate where temperatures drop below freezing, failing to drain the water heater is a recipe for disaster. When the water inside freezes, it expands with incredible force. This expansion can easily crack the metal tank, leading to leaks and a complete failure of the unit. Replacing an RV water heater is a very costly repair that can be easily avoided by proper winterizing.

Can I Use Vinegar to Clean My RV Water Heater Tank?

Yes, using a vinegar solution is a popular and effective method for removing stubborn mineral deposits. After draining the tank, temporarily reinstall the drain plug. Use the winterizing bypass kit to pump a solution of 2 to 3 gallons of white vinegar mixed with water into the tank. Let it sit for several hours, then drain and flush the tank thoroughly with fresh water.

Conclusion

Knowing how to drain water heater tank in RV is an essential skill that empowers you to take better care of your investment and avoid expensive, preventable repairs. While it may seem like a complicated task at first, the process is logical and simple when broken down into clear steps. By taking the time to perform this routine maintenance, you ensure your water heater operates efficiently and remains protected from sediment buildup and freezing temperatures.

Don’t let this simple task intimidate you. By following this guide, you can confidently service your water heater, extending its lifespan and ensuring you always have hot water ready for your next adventure.