Draining water heater through low point drain

[mooky_stinks]

On my last trailer I was able to drain the water heater through the low point drain by holding the relief valve open. I like to do this just because it's easier and doesn't require tools. I tried it on our new trailer and it doesn't seem possible. I hear a slight amount of air from the valve but absolutely no water comes out of the low point drain. I confirmed it by pulling the plug and it was still full. We camp in some places with questionable water so I like to drain in between trips. Am I missing something or is this trailer plumbed different? I don't need to check my anode rod every 2 weeks!

[dougrainer]

harley4275 wrote:
After taking drainmplug out and drained , you can stick a small hose into hole and siphon out the remaining water,

Easiest way is to leave the drain plug removed and run city water into the Tank and that will usually flush out that small lower level of debris. Let it run for 5 or 10 minutes. Doug

[fj12ryder]

I usually put a small hose tip in the opening and try to really stir up the water and then let it drain. I try to get as much of the crud as possible flushed out that way. Seems like there is always "stuff" on the bottom.

[harley4275]

After taking drainmplug out and drained , you can stick a small hose into hole and siphon out the remaining water,

[kellem]

Yep, pull the anode and open the release valve and stand back.....looks like a hydrant. Lol

[valhalla360]

Also pulling the annode lets you see if it's worn out.

[fj12ryder]

On my Suburban water heater, there is always some water left after opening the drain plug. The lowest point of the water heater is below the opening on my mine.

[dougrainer]

1. It does not drain because the OEM installed a check valve in the Inlet of the water heater
2. ALWAYS remove the WH drain plug to drain the WH. This keeps it from sticking(Suburban WH) and is a lot quicker. Besides, you do NOT want the usual Mineral debris back feeding into the fresh water lines and Faucet valves. There is almost always mineral debris in the HW tank.

[enblethen]

Very easy to drain through plug or anode hole using proper size of socket with 6 inch extension. Don't take a chance by trying to cut corners!

[Lwiddis]

I prefer the “rush” of water by removing the plug to clear at least some of any debris and draining questionable water is only step one IMO. Bleach is needed.