Turn off the water heater’s power supply or set it to maintenance/off mode
Shut off the cold water supply valve to the heater
Close the hot water isolation valve, if installed
Attach a hose to the heater’s drain valve
Place the other end of the hose in a floor drain, bucket, or outside area
Open the drain valve
Open a hot water faucet in the house to relieve pressure
Connect a pump to the flush kit, if using one
Fill a bucket with white vinegar or approved descaling solution
Place the pump intake hose into the solution
Connect the pump output hose to the heater’s cold water service port
Connect the return hose from the heater’s hot water service port back into the bucket
Run the pump for the recommended flushing time
Close the service ports and remove the hoses
Open the cold water supply valve
Flush clean water through the heater until the water runs clear
Close the drain valve
Close the hot water faucet
Restore the hot water isolation valve, if applicable
Restore power to the heater
Check for leaks and confirm normal operation