Fixing a Broken Drain Valve: How to Drain a Hot Water Tank Properly

Have you ever encountered a situation where a hot water tank had a broken drain valve, leaving you stuck with an unemptied tank? Many homeowners face similar issues, but knowing the right steps to take can save you both time and effort. This guide will walk you through the process of draining a hot water tank when the traditional drain valve is broken, and also provide a few alternative solutions. Whether you're DIY-minded or prefer to call for professional help, you'll find this information helpful.

Understanding the Problem

A broken drain valve can be quite problematic, especially if the installer who installed the new tank didn't drain it properly. While it might seem like an easy fix, improperly draining a tank can result in water spilling and potential damage to your home. It's important to handle this situation carefully to avoid any further issues.

Call Your Installer Again

Perhaps the first step you should take is to contact the installer who installed the new hot water tank. They may be able to drain the old tank for you at a minimal cost, or they could even arrive to complete the job. This is the best solution if you simply want to minimize disruption and avoid any potential mess.

DIY Solutions

Option 1: Manual Drainage

Removing the broken valve is a step you can start with, as this will often allow water to drain more easily. Use a suitable tool to unscrew the drain valve from the tank. You might also consider rolling the tank over if it doesn’t damage other parts, letting gravity do its job. Take care to direct the water flow where it won’t cause damage.

Option 2: Syphon Method

Another DIY solution is to insert a small-diameter piece of plastic tubing (about 1/2 inch in diameter) into either the inlet or outlet, extending it close to the bottom of the tank without completely blocking it. Siphoning out the majority of the water can be a quick and effective way to remove most of the water content.

Option 3: Professional Pumping

If the manual methods are not feasible, consider renting a 40-gallon water transfer pump. You can use PVC piping to draw the water from the bottom of the tank. This method ensures that the water is removed efficiently and without the risk of overloading your muscles.

Yelp the Installers

It’s important to hold your installers accountable for their work. Leave a review on Yelp or a similar platform to provide feedback on their job. A public criticism could prompt them to provide additional services at a reasonable cost or even complete the drainage process for you.

Avoiding the Tank Moving Disaster

Be mindful of moving the tank as it is extremely heavy, with each gallon of water weighing about 12 pounds (5.5 kg). Attempting to move a fully loaded tank is not advisable as it could lead to back injuries or even tank damage. Always use an appliance dolly to move the tank and place it outside on its side with the fill hole facing down.

Draining the Tank Manually

If you can’t move the tank, consider drilling a hole in it to allow the water to drain into buckets. This method is simple and effective if you don’t have access to larger tools. Place the tank outside and utilize an appliance dolly to help you maneuver it.

After setting it down, allow the water to drain for a few minutes. Once the flow has slowed, lift one end of the tank to further drain the remaining water. When you can no longer lift it, turn the tank over and allow the final bit of water to drain out.

Conclusion

Dealing with a broken drain valve on a hot water tank can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can be managed without too much trouble. Whether you opt for a professional service, DIY techniques, or a combination of both, the key is to ensure the water is drained safely and efficiently. Refer back to this guide for a quick reference if you encounter similar issues in the future.