Step 5 · Flush Out Sediment

This is the step people usually slow down on. Go finger-tight first, then a quarter turn. No rush — replay the clip whenever it helps.

Once the water flow from the hose has slowed to a trickle, the tank is mostly empty. To remove the stubborn sediment caked at the bottom, you will perform a scouring flush. With the drain valve still open, turn the cold water supply valve on for 15-20 seconds, then shut it off. This will blast water into the bottom of the tank, stirring up the remaining sediment and flushing it out the drain hose. Repeat this process 3-4 times, or until the water running out of the hose is clear and free of debris.