How to Drain an RV Water Heater Like a Pro

To drain an RV water heater, turn off the power, connect a hose to the drain valve, open the pressure relief valve, and let the water flow out completely.

Draining your RV water heater is essential maintenance that prevents sediment buildup, corrosion, and freezing damage. This step-by-step guide covers everything from safety precautions to advanced flushing techniques.

Why Draining Your RV Water Heater Matters

Neglecting to drain your RV water heater can lead to:

• Sediment buildup reducing heating efficiency
• Corrosion from anode rod breakdown
• Bacterial growth in stagnant water
• Cracked tanks from freezing water expansion

For optimal performance, drain your water heater before winter storage and at least once annually. Full-time RVers should consider quarterly maintenance.

Tools You’ll Need

Tool	Purpose
Drain plug wrench	Removing stubborn drain plugs
ChannelLock pliers	Alternative for some drain plugs
RV water heater wand	Flushing out stubborn sediment
Bucket	Catching drained water
White vinegar	Sanitizing the tank

Step-by-Step Draining Process

1. Safety First

Turn off all power sources:

• Shut off propane supply at the tank
• Turn off electrical breaker (for electric models)
• Disconnect 12V power if equipped

2. Prepare the Water System

Follow these steps in order:

1. Turn off water supply (city connection or pump)
2. Open hot water faucet to relieve pressure
3. Allow water to cool completely

3. Drain the Tank

Locate the drain plug (typically bottom front) and pressure relief valve (top). For complete drainage:

1. Place bucket under drain
2. Remove drain plug with proper tool
3. Open pressure relief valve to allow air flow
4. Use a rinsing wand if sediment blocks flow

Advanced Cleaning Techniques

Vinegar Flush Method

For deep cleaning:

1. Close drain and fill tank with 1 gallon white vinegar
2. Let sit 12 hours to dissolve mineral deposits
3. Drain completely and flush with fresh water

Anode Rod Inspection

While drained, check your anode rod:

• Replace if more than 50% corroded
• Use Teflon tape on threads when reinstalling
• Consider aluminum rods for softer water

Winterizing Your Water Heater

For cold weather storage:

• Drain completely as described above
• Bypass the heater when adding antifreeze
• Consider installing insulation blankets

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Slow Drainage

If water won’t drain:

• Check for sediment blockage at drain opening
• Use a plastic probe to clear debris
• Ensure pressure relief valve is fully open

Leaking Drain Valve

If valve leaks after reassembly:

• Replace worn rubber washer
• Apply pipe thread sealant to plug threads
• Consider upgrading to a higher quality brass valve

Restoring Service

When ready to use again:

1. Ensure drain plug is securely installed
2. Close pressure relief valve
3. Turn on water supply and fill tank completely
4. Restore power sources
5. Check for leaks before heating

For more detailed maintenance tips, consult your manufacturer’s manual or visit RV Water Heater Parts for model-specific guidance.