11 best tank flushes

A tank flush, in the context of water heaters and plumbing, refers to a maintenance procedure that involves cleaning out sediment and debris that can accumulate inside a water heater tank over time. This accumulation of sediment is particularly common in areas with hard water, where mineral deposits can settle at the bottom of the tank. Tank flushes are an important part of water heater maintenance as they can help improve the efficiency and prolong the lifespan of the water heater.

Here's how a tank flush typically works:

  1. Turn Off the Power: Before performing a tank flush, it's crucial to turn off the power supply to the water heater. For electric water heaters, this means shutting off the circuit breaker, while for gas water heaters, you should turn off the gas supply.

  2. Cool the Water: Allow the water in the tank to cool down. This is important to prevent scalding and ensure safety during the flushing process.

  3. Connect a Hose: A hose is connected to the drain valve located near the bottom of the water heater tank. The other end of the hose is placed in a suitable drainage location, like a floor drain or outside.

  4. Open the Drain Valve: Open the drain valve to allow the water to flow out of the tank. This will carry away sediment and debris that have settled at the bottom.

  5. Flush the Tank: You can flush the tank by allowing the water to run until it appears clear and free of debris.In some cases, you may need to close the drain valve, fill the tank partially, and then reopen it to help dislodge stubborn sediment.

  6. Close the Drain Valve: Once the tank is flushed and the water runs clear, close the drain valve tightly.

  7. Restore Power: If you have an electric water heater, restore power by turning the circuit breaker back on. For gas water heaters, turn the gas supply back on.

Performing regular tank flushes can help maintain the efficiency of your water heater, reduce energy consumption, and extend the lifespan of the appliance. It's a good practice to consult your water heater's manufacturer instructions or a professional plumber for specific guidance on how often to perform a tank flush and any unique considerations for your particular water heater model.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best tank flushes on the market
  

Camco Dual Flush Pro Holding Tank Rinser with Gate Valve- Thoroughly Cleans Entire Septic System and Breaks Down Tough Clogs in Pipes (39062)

Camco

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Clean your entire septic system with the Camco RV Dual Flush Pro reverse flush valve. Forces water back up into plumbing lines to break up clogs in pipes. Allows you to backfill and flush black and grey water tanks, then reverse valve and flush sewer drain hose. Anti-siphon valve and complete valve assembly included. Patented.

  • Convenient way to clean the entire septic system
  • Forces water back up into plumbing lines to break up clogs in pipes
  • Allows to backfill and flush black and grey water tanks
  • Anti-siphon valve and complete valve assembly included
  • Clear, break resistant polycarbonate adapters make it easy to see when the tank is done rinsing

User questions & answers

Question: Do you need a separate hose to use this or can you use the hose that you hook up to your camper
Answer: Use only differential gear oils recommended by your owners manual.
Question: Have you bought two, one for the black/grey and other for the grey? Would there be a reason to buy for both terminals
Answer: This particular product has ZDDP and is not recommended for vehicles with catalytic converters. I would recommend the STP 17881 for synthetic motor oil.
Question: What are the dimensions of this item? I know 5' but is that from inside or outside
Answer: I have a classic muscle car and use conventional oil and need the extra ZZDP. Not sure about synthetic oil, but my guess is not.
Question: Does this connect to the existing valve for the tanks you have or do you replace the existing valve with this 1? need to reach valve easier
Answer: The high mileage version contains stop leak and seems a bit thinner. I did not have good results with the high mileage version, but the standard on is great. The high mileage label also claims it cleans your engine, which seems like nonsense; it just made part of my engine oil turn into a gel. I recommend the standard version.

Product features

Camco Dual Flush Pro Holding Tank Rinser with Gate Valve

Clean your entire septic system with this reverse flush valve. Forces water back up into plumbing lines to break up clogs in pipes. Allows you to backfill and flush black and grey water tanks, then reverse valve and flush sewer drain hose. Anti-siphon valve and complete valve assembly included.

Camco 40126 Tornado Rotary Tank Rinser with Hose

Camco

Based on 571 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Camco RV Tornado Rotary Tank Rinser with Hose helps to reach every area of your holding tank. This permanent tank rinser with 360° rotating head and multiple high-pressure nozzles is the easiest, most sanitary way to clean your holding tank. No need for hoses through the windows or devices stuck down toilets. Includes a backflow preventer and 6' exterior access hose for quick hose connection with no mess. Patented.

  • The easiest, most sanitary way to clean the RV holding tank
  • Dislodge and flush stubborn waste deposits and odor-causing particles left after holding tank is emptied
  • Powerful 360 degree rotary cleaning action
  • Comes with a vacuum breaker and 6' exterior access hose for quick hose connection with no mess
  • Internal backflow protector

User questions & answers

Question: what is the diameter if the plate that goes up against the tank, what size is the hole in the tank
Answer: You can but I use a hose just for that
Question: How is this installed
Answer: Our camper only has 1 terminal, with 2 release valves. However, you wouldn't leave it connected when you are not dumping from that terminal. So, if you have 2 terminals, I would buy 1 and move it with the dump hose to the second terminal.
Question: The most accessible side of the tank is the side with the sensors on it. Will it spray backward to clean the sensors
Answer: It's inside diameter is 4 inches, just like most standard dump hoses. I'm guessing the dimensions they listed in the description are from the outside. Make sure to put it on so that the hose pulls the hooks tighter not looser (don't ask how I learned this).
Question: How long has the tornado lasted for you all? i live in my 5th wheel. So if i drill hole in my poop tank, it better last
Answer: The Tank Rinser with Gate Valve attaches to the existing valve just like the sewer hose would. Then you attach the sewer hose to the valve. Works like a charm to drain and flush both tanks because you can see when the rinse water runs clean. You can also flush the sewer hose after cleaning the tanks. You remove the valve when you are done. I store the valve, hose, gloves in a plastic tub to keep any drips contained.

Product features

Removes Stubborn Waste Deposits

Camco's RV Tornado Rotary Tank Rinser with Hose allows you to use rotary power to blast the walls of your grey and black water holding tanks clean. With a 360-degree rotating head and (10) high-pressure nozzles, the Tornado's powerful spray reaches every inch of your holding tank. It removes and flushes stubborn waste deposits and odor-causing residue left after your holding tank is emptied. This product includes a tank rinser, internal backflow preventer, 6-foot exterior access hose, spacer, vacuum breaker, remote flusher connector and stainless-steel mounting hardware. Easy to use, the exterior access hose is quick to connect and is mess-free.

About Camco Manufacturing

Camco proudly manufactures many of our 4,000+ products in 5 facilities across the United States, including items from flagship brands like RhinoFLEX, TastePURE, TST, Currituck, and FasTen.

Fluidmaster 400CR Universal Toilet Fill Flapper Repair Kit for 2-Inch Flush Valves, Easy Install, Multicolor

Fluidmaster

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Fix the two most common causes of a running toilet with a Fluidmaster Fill Valve and Flapper Kit. The kit includes the iconic 400A fill valve, the most popular toilet fill valve in the world. It also includes a solid frame flapper that aligns with the tank drain every time for a consistent, powerful flush. The whole kit can be installed in ten minutes or less and will get your toilet flushing like new again. This product replaces a leaky flapper & damaged fill valve.

From the Manufacturer

Fluidmaster is the #1 toilet repair brand in the world. Since 1957, we have been guiding our customers to the right toilet repair solutions. Fluidmaster is dedicated to making the installation of its products easy and simple with a complete line of toilet repair parts including: fill valves, single and dual flush valves, flappers, tank levers, toilet seals (bowl wax and wax-free), toilet repair kits, flush valve seals, connectors and more. Fluidmaster parts are found in more toilets than all other brands combined. Fluidmaster distributes to over 90 countries and is the trusted brand by toilet manufacturers and professionals worldwide.

  • Plastic/Rubber
  • Features the proven 400A anti-siphon toilet fill valve
  • High Quality and durable toilet fill valve
  • This product has a 5 year warranty and is the solution to fix a noisy and running toilet
  • Ideal product for use in 3.5 gallons per flush toilets or larger
  • Includes the 400A Fill Valve and the 501 Flapper
  • The 501 Flapper has Microban that prevents breakdown due to bacteria

User questions & answers

Question: Is this compatible with toto thu175s
Answer: Most American standard toilets are 2" , especially the toilet model before 2015. You can also make sure by below steps: 1. Turn off the water valve too the toilet. 2. Hold the handle down and drain out the water from the tank. 3. Measure the diameter of the opening to see if it has a 2 or 3 inch opening.
Question: Will this work on kohler k 3402-pb, "rialto
Answer: It was a snap. Take off the old one, replace with new one took about 1min.
Question: Can this work in any toilet for household use? Also, does it withstand high water pressure
Answer: Yes, it fits well. My hissing and leaking toilets have been fixed! The flapper is super easy to install and works great.
Question: Can this part be used to replace a fill valve on a Kohler toilet
Answer: /Duration -:-Loaded: 0%Stream Type LIVESeek to live, currently playing liveLIVERemaining Time -0:00 Playback Rate1xChaptersChaptersDescriptionsdescriptions off, selectedCaptionscaptions off, selectedAudio TrackFullscreenThis is a modal window. .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : none; } .noScriptNotDisplayExpander { display : none; } .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : block; } This flapper comes with a stainless chain. Any problems please contact 【[email protected]】Built with soft durable rubber & stainless chain, the new toilet flapper was corrosion-resistant, no twist & provide the best seal. It helps a lot to save water.

Product features

400CR Toilet Fill Valve and Flapper Repair Kit

Fix the two most common causes of a running toilet with a Fluidmaster Fill Valve and Flapper Kit. The kit includes the iconic 400A fill valve, the most popular toilet fill valve in the world.

Get your toilet flushing like new again

Kit includes a solid frame flapper that aligns with the tank drain every time for a consistent, powerful flush. The whole kit can be installed in ten minutes or less and will get your toilet flushing like new again. This product replaces a leaky flapper & damaged fill valve.

Fluidmaster

Trusted, Durable Toilet Repair Parts Since 1957.

Kohler Genuine Part 1083980 3" Toilet Canister Flush Valve Kit, 2.50 x 1.50 x 9.00 inches

Kohler

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Protect the warranty on Kohler products, always look for the Kohler Genuine Parts logo. This flush valve was designed by Kohler engineers to maintain original product performance and promote product longevity. Replace your old or leaky flush valve with an OEM Kohler part. Use a soft, dampened sponge or cloth. Never use an abrasive material such as a brush or scouring pad to clean surfaces.

From the Manufacturer

You can count on genuine Kohler parts to maintain the same Kohler quality. Canister valve replacement/repair kit.

  • Kohler genuine part
  • Canister flush valve kit for Kohler Cimarron toilets
  • 3 inches canister with a 3 inches outlet
  • Compatible with Kohler Cimarron tank model number K 4634
  • Look inside the back wall of the toilet tank to identify tank model number. Material: Plastic
  • Complete assembly with tank to bowl gasket. Inlet diameter: 0.5 inches

User questions & answers

Question: Will this flush valve fit the 1.6 Gal model
Answer: I have replaced my flapper style flush valves with this canister style and they work perfectly.
Question: where do i find toilet model number
Answer: On back of toilet tank- you will have to remove it to see it
Question: how do I install kohler
Answer: In a nutshell, the lower two components in the image go under the tank and everything else goes inside. If you can't use the installation being replaced as a guide for installing the new one, this site (http://www.plumbingsupply.com/kohlertoiletparts-cimarron.html) also kind of helps visualize how it all fits together with the tank plate.
Question: Has anyone had issues with the white refill tube coming out of the canister
Answer: Yes. Tube had hardened after 8 years of use. When replaced tubing, I found the 1059289 Canister Flush Valve Stop Kit (the plastic piece to which the tubing attaches) had cracked, no longer able to twist lock. I will either replace it (original black plastic piece is discontinued - 'appears' to be replaced by flush-valve-repair-kit-1229656 with larger yellow plastic piece) or drill a hole and insert a pin to hold it in place. The teflon tape idea or some 'reversibly' applied rubber cement, might be needed to hold tubing in the valve stop item.

Product features

Kohler Genuine Part 1083980 3" Toilet Canister Flush Valve Kit

This flush valve was designed by Kohler engineers to maintain original product performance and promote product longevity. Replace your old or leaky flush valve with an OEM Kohler Part

Features

  • Kohler Genuine Part
  • Canister flush valve kit for Kohler Cimarron toilets
  • 3" canister with a 3" outlet
  • Compatible with Kohler Cimarron tank model number K-4634
  • Look inside the back wall of the toilet tank to identify tank model number
  • Complete assembly with tank-to-bowl gasket

Kari Traa Women's Tone Tee Shirt - Workout Racerback Tank Tops Quick Dry Athletic Shirts

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tone Tee brings strong spirited girls a stylish training t-shirt that is made from ultra-soft and quick-drying fabric for the best feel against the skin. 4-way stretch lets you move freely in any direction and a seamless construction reduces the risk of chafing. For the best breathability, it has strategic and stylish perforations in the front and back that vent moisture. Tone Tee also has a ribbed hem as well as a discreet knitted KT logo.

  • ELITE TRAINING SHIRT - The Tone Top created with the strong spirited girls in mind, a stylish layer of ultra-soft & quick-drying fabric for a smooth feel and easy mobility
  • FIT FEMININE FASHION - Tone Top is an elegant, training layer that is made from premium materials for the highest performance
  • BEAUTIFUL RACERBACK DESIGN - This stylish shirt with constructed 4-way stretch fabric freely moves with you in all direction
  • INTENSE WORKOUT DESIGN - The Tone Top feminine slim fit shirt created with a round neck and elastic details for a purposeful workout or active lifestyle
  • FOR GIRLS, BY GIRLS - Sportswear designed to fit the female body perfectly.

User questions & answers

Question: Does it run true to size
Answer: We had ours installed by the dealer. They did a crappy job. I had to go in and tighten the hose to stop leaking after about two months. A year later had to remove and reattach the part that attaches to the tank. After a year of use it looked pretty much brand new, so I expect it will last a few more years at least. I just wish I had installed it myself.

Saniflo 005 Saniflo 005 White Insulated Toilet Tank Complete With Fill And Flush Valves

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Saniflo insulated tank complete with fill and flush valves connects to either the round front or elongated bowl. Add the Saniflo pump and you'll have a complete flushing system that is easy to install. Product Features: Tank only configuration Covered under Saniflo's 1 year warranty Made from Vitreous China Insulated tank - prevents condensate from forming on the outside of the toilet tank and ending up on the floor Toilet tank supplied with bowl screws,washers and wing nuts Specifications: Overall Height: 15-1/4" (measured from the bottom of the base to the highest point on the tank) Overall Length: 8" (measured from the back of the tank to the front of the tank) Overall Width: 17-3/4" (measured from the furthest point on the left to the furthest on the right)

User questions & answers

Question: What is the spacing between mounting bolts
Answer: It has side and front and end. So I bet it would. It's really the only choice anyway. Well made. It really makes a difference cleaning out tank. Use good black silicone between surfaces before screwing it in.

KOHLER GENUINE PART 85406 2" Toilet Flush Valve Kit,Assorted Colors

Kohler

Based on 598 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Protect the warranty on KOHLER products, always look for the KOHLER GENUINE PARTS logo. This flush valve was designed by KOHLER engineers to maintain original product performance and promote product longevity. Replace your old or leaky flush valve with an OEM KOHLER part.

From the Manufacturer

Protect the warranty on KOHLER products, always look for the KOHLER GENUINE PARTS logo. KOHLER GENUINE PARTS are designed by KOHLER engineers to maintain original product performance and promote product longevity.

  • KOHLER GENUINE PART
  • Flush valve assembly for Wellworth, Highline and various other KOHLER toilets
  • Includes flush valve, 2" flapper, triangle gasket and bolts
  • Optimizes toilet flushing performance
  • Replaces black flush valve with red flapper
  • Also replaces part number 84246

User questions & answers

Question: Does this valve replace
Answer: The same as a standard toilet.
Question: I installed this but still have a slow leak from tank into the bowl. Is the flapper opening the only place water can flow from tank to bowl
Answer: Yes, I got XS and a friend got S and they fit perfectly
Question: will this fit a 4609 model toilet
Answer: Maryann, I'm with you. I need to know this info as well. Why can't people just answer a simple question?? I have done some research online to no avail. I did come upon a guy's detailed installation blog with pictures. He drilled a 1 3/4" hole to install (as per Camco instructions). From the pictures, it seems there would be about 1/2" of plate extending on either side of the drilled hole allowing for screws. So, my guess is that the plate is about 2 3/4" to 3" in diameter. I hope this helps!!
Question: Is the diameter of the flush valve
Answer: You drill a hole in the tank (don’t recall the size but it comes with instructions) and insert the tornado device. The round plate you see pictured has hole for screws to attach to tank. I have used several wand type tank cleaners before and this is the best I have used. It works very well. I would buy it again.

Product features

KOHLER GENUINE PART 85406 2" Toilet Flush Valve Kit,Assorted Colors

This flush valve was designed by Kohler engineers to maintain original product performance and promote product longevity. Replace your old or leaky flush valve with an OEM Kohler Part.

Even Legends Die (Crimson Worlds Book 8)

Based on 285 reviews Check latest price

Oops! The Fish Died

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

KOHLER GENUINE PART 1188999 2" Toilet Canister Flush Valve Kit

Kohler

Based on 548 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Protect the warranty on KOHLER products, always look for the KOHLER GENUINE PARTS logo. KOHLER GENUINE PARTS are designed by KOHLER engineers to maintain original product performance and promote product longevity. This AquaPiston canister allows water to flow into the bowl from all sides (360 degrees), increasing the power and effectiveness of the flush.

From the Manufacturer

Kohler replacement part; 1188999.Part number 1188999 is a flush valve kit. Flush valve kit No finish Kohler replacement parts.

  • KOHLER GENUINE PART
  • 3" canister with a 2" outlet harnesses the natural force of gravity and optimizes flush performance
  • Compatible with KOHLER Cimarron tank model number K-4421
  • Look inside the back wall of the toilet tank to identify tank model number
  • The number printed on the canister is a component number, which is a component of this kit.

User questions & answers

Question: My old flush e is 85406 what can I replace it with
Answer: Of course ,might need some water height adjustments and a new ballcock.
Question: will this fit 974166 cs ba
Answer: make sure you have the nut tight enough or not over tigthen. Make sure the flapper is coming all the down to seal. Make sure you don't have a cracks .
Question: I replaced the yellow seal and it still has a slow leak. What should I check next
Answer: Yes, but if your ballcock is not adjustable style water will over flow the tube. If it is adjustable just change water level to the mark on the tube, or about 3/4 inch below the top of the tube. This item fits most all Kohler tanks with the three bolt configuration.
Question: Does it come with the valve seal
Answer: not sure about diameter of large tube that goes between tank and bowl. Seems larger than 2". Cant really measure since installed. Here is link to picture https://www.plumbingsupply.com/images/kohler-flush-valve-85406.jpg . THis is the only one that fits Kohler Highline toilets and worth the price. Key Is triangular gasket at bottom that only comes with Kolher

Watts Tankless Water Heater Service Valve Kit

Watts

Based on 501 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This lead free tankless service valve kit is designed to simplify the installation, maintenance and operation of tankless water heaters. This 3/4 inch tankless hot and cold water heater valve set with female thread connection and no spring check facilitates isolation of the water heater from the water lines, water heating purging and draining. It replaces up to 18 fittings and 16 connections used in typical tankless water heater installations. It features a lead free copper silicon alloy body, full-port quarter-turn ball valve with color-coded T-handle, virgin PTFE seats, purge and drain valve with a hose connection and tethered brass cap, FPT union connection to water heater and FPT connection to waterline. The pressure rating is 600 psi (41. 4 bar) WOG. Features: Replaces up to 18 fittings and 16 connections used in typical tankless water heater installation Optional pressure relief and check valve Simplifies the installation, maintenance, and operation of tankless water heaters Hot and cold valves certified to NSF/ANSI 61From the Manufacturer: Designed to simplify the installation and maintenance of tankless water heaters, the Watts Series THW Tankless water heater valves replace up to 18 fittings and 16 connectors used in typical tankless water heater installations. Available in two valve sets for both hot and cold water with 3/4-inch female threaded union brass fittings.

From the Manufacturer

This Watts Series THW Tankless water heater valves are designed to simplify the installation and maintenance of tankless water heaters They replace up to 18 fittings and 16 connectors used in typical tankless water heater installations Available in two valve sets for both hot and cold water with 3/4-inch female threaded union brass fittings

  • TANKLESS WATER HEATER VALVE KIT: Watts LFTWH-FT-HCN service valve kit for tankless water heater valves simplify the installation, maintenance and operation of tankless water heaters.
  • SERVICE VALVE KIT FOR TANKLESS WATER HEATER: The tankless water heater service valve kit replaces up to 18 fittings and 16 connections used in typical tankless water heater installations, color-coded tee handle. Optional pressure relief and check valve.
  • MULTIPLE CONNECTION VALVE KIT: They are available in two valve sets or as a single valve with female threaded, union or quick-connect end options. The service valve kits are available with or without a relief valve. Facilitate service and maintenance with cold water inlet and hot water outlet valves certified to NSF/ANSI 61.
  • LEAD FREE VALVE KIT: The wetted surface of our Lead Free products contacted by consumable water contain less than one quarter of one percent (0.25 percent) of lead by weight.
  • WATER SERVICE VALVE KIT: Purge/drain ports allow regular cleaning to remove scale build-up. The kit includes LF4L - Lead free poppet type pressure relief valves for protection against excessive pressure and LFTWH - Lead Free Tankless Water Heater Valves.

User questions & answers

Question: What type of fittings are on the inlet and outlet side of the unit
Answer: standard 3/4 pipe your choose of copper,pvc,. etc
Question: Is the drain valve threaded outlet 3/4 or 1/2 inch
Answer: if it says it is a 3/4" Service Valve Kit - all fittings are 3/4"...
Question: how do i stop it from leaking at union
Answer: Have you tried plumbers tape? Sometimes you have to wrap the plumbers tape around the threading several times to get a good seal.
Question: Inline filter for a Tempra tankless water heater
Answer: Not sure you need a inline filter, you can get a kit to flush your tankless once a year , with vingar or they sell cleaner made for them. It's two shut off valves on the in and out of unit , also nice to have if you need to have work done on unit .

Product features

Service Valve Kit

Replaces up to 18 fittings and 16 connections used in typical tankless water heater installations, color-coded tee handle.

3/4" Valve Set

This 3/4 inch tankless hot and cold water heater valve set with female thread connection and no spring check facilitates isolation of the water heater from the water lines, water heating purging and draining.

Pressure Rating

The pressure rating is 600 psi.

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