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How Often Should You Flush Your Water Heater—and Why Chattanooga Homeowners Can’t Afford to Skip It

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Same-Day Plumbing Solutions for Chattanooga, Hamilton County & Beyond

In Chattanooga, nothing disrupts a home faster than losing hot water. Whether you’re in Harrison, Signal Mountain, or East Ridge, homeowners often ask:

“How often should I flush my water heater?”

The short answer: once a year. But there’s more to it—especially with our hard water and fast-changing weather conditions in the Tennessee Valley.

Why Flushing Matters

Over time, minerals and sediment settle at the bottom of your water heater tank. Left unchecked, that buildup:

  • Reduces efficiency (higher energy bills)
  • Creates popping or rumbling noises
  • Shortens the life of your heater
  • Leads to sudden leaks or no-hot-water emergencies

At Rooter-Man, we see this every week in Hamilton, Bradley, and Walker counties. Regular flushing is the simplest way to prevent these headaches.

Conventional vs. Tankless Heaters

  • Conventional tanks should be flushed once a year.
  • Tankless units still need maintenance—usually a descaling every 12–18 months to combat mineral buildup.

No matter the type, Rooter-Man technicians handle both with same-day appointments.

Signs It’s Time to Call for Service

If you notice any of these, your system is overdue:

  • Lukewarm or inconsistent water temperature
  • Strange noises from the tank
  • Rust-colored or cloudy hot water
  • Water pooling around the base

These are warning signs we frequently see in high-use households across Hamilton and Catoosa Counties.

Common Plumbing Mistakes That Wreck Water Heaters

Some DIY shortcuts can actually cause damage. We advise homeowners in Chattanooga and surrounding counties to avoid:

  • Pouring harsh chemical cleaners down drains
  • Using chlorine tablets in the tank
  • Ignoring minor leaks
  • Setting water pressure too high

A simple annual flush is far safer—and cheaper—than a full replacement.

Professional Plumbing, Local Care

Rooter-Man isn’t just about fixing pipes. We provide:

And we do it with careful, professional plumbing—low footprint, high standards. Our plumbers treat your home with Louvre museum care.

If you suspect that your pipes are leaking, don’t wait for those little leaks to turn into bigger trouble. Call Rooter-Man at (423) 308-6931 to find leaky pipe repair near you now!