How to flush and maintain an electric water heater?

Regular maintenance of an electric water heater extends its lifespan by 3 to 5 years. Here are the steps recommended by the CMMTQ:

Annual water heater flush:

1. Turn off the power at the breaker
2. Close the cold water supply
3. Open the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater (connect a hose to a floor drain)
4. Open the T&P valve or a hot water faucet upstairs to let air in
5. Let the water drain until it runs clear (about 5-10 litres of sediment)
6. Close the drain valve, close the T&P valve, open the cold water supply
7. Restore power when the tank is full

Other maintenance:

• Sacrificial anode: Check every 2-3 years. A worn anode (50% diameter reduction) must be replaced. Anode cost: $30 to $60
• T&P Valve: Manually operate once a year to verify it's not stuck
• Thermostat setting: 60°C (140°F) recommended — hot enough to kill bacteria (Legionella), not hot enough to cause severe burns