In the YouTube video “Get more HOT water out of your water heater with this NEW tool,” Roger Wakefield demonstrates a novel device called the “Sediment Buster.” This tool uses short bursts of compressed air to help break up and flush sediment from the bottom of a water heater tank. Whether you’re a homeowner or a plumber, learning to remove sediment efficiently can significantly improve your water heater’s performance and extend its lifespan. Below, you’ll discover step-by-step instructions, practical tips for using this tool, and why having one in your toolbox can save you time and money.
Why Sediment Matters
Sediment naturally accumulates at the bottom of water heater tanks over time. The minerals, rust, and other debris that settle there create several problems:
- Reduced heating efficiency
- Less available hot water
- Potential corrosion leading to leaks
- Increased operating noise
By regularly flushing the tank and dislodging this buildup, you can ensure the water heater runs at peak performance. The Sediment Buster approach takes this routine maintenance a step further by introducing air bursts to break up those stubborn deposits.
Basic Steps to Prep the Water Heater
- Shut Off Gas or Power
- Gas Heater: Turn the thermostat dial to “vacation.” This keeps the pilot lit but prevents the burner from firing.
- Electric Heater: Switch off the breaker supplying the water heater.
- Open a Hot Water Faucet Indoors
- Turn on the hot side of a bathtub faucet (or any indoor hot tap) to allow air into the system. This ensures the heater won’t pressurize while flushing.
- Close the Cold Water Inlet
- Once you turn off the cold supply line, the tank will no longer fill, and the water inside is free to drain.
- Attach a Garden Hose and the Sediment Buster
- Connect a regular garden hose to the drain valve, then attach the Sediment Buster tool.
- If your tank hasn’t been drained in years, sediment can clog the drain valve. The Sediment Buster’s air bursts help clear that blockage.
Using the Sediment Buster
Set Up an Air Compressor
- You’ll need a compressor capable of delivering short, forceful bursts of air (around 75 psi in Roger’s test).
- A simple bicycle pump likely won’t achieve the pressure or burst needed to dislodge heavier sediment.
Begin Pressurized Bursts
- Open the Drain Valve
- With the cold inlet closed and the hot tap indoors open, crack the drain valve to let water (and sediment) start flowing out.
- Apply Air Bursts
- Short blasts of air introduce turbulence inside the tank.
- Each burst stirs up sediment that may be stuck at the bottom or near the drain port.
- Observe Water Flow
- If flow decreases or stops, sediment may be blocking the drain again. A few more bursts help clear it.
- Keep an eye on the color of the water. Brownish or murky water indicates sediment is flushing out.
Consider Hose Length and Layout
- A long, winding hose can slow the draining process due to friction and elevation changes.
- A shorter, straighter hose path improves flow, letting water and sediment exit faster.
- In Roger’s test, switching to a shorter hose dramatically sped up drainage.
Real-World Results
While the heater used in the video was already cut open for demonstration (limiting how much water it held), Roger still saw brownish sediment flowing into the Sediment Buster housing. This confirms that the air bursts loosened debris otherwise stuck at the bottom.
Even after multiple flushes, some residue remained in the tank, illustrating that no flushing method is 100% perfect. However, removing the bulk of the sediment can still boost efficiency and extend heater life.
Tips for Homeowners and Plumbers
- Routine Maintenance
- Aim to flush your water heater at least once a year, even if you don’t use air bursts. This keeps the buildup manageable.
- Choose an Air Compressor Wisely
- A small portable compressor can often do the job. Make sure it delivers sufficient psi for short bursts.
- Mark and Maintain
- Keep track of when you last flushed your heater. Regular maintenance can prevent large deposits from forming.
- For Plumbers
- The Sediment Buster can save hours of waiting for slow-draining tanks. Faster flushes mean happier customers and more efficient job scheduling.
- Check Your Hose
- A short, high-quality hose yields better drainage. Long or cheap hoses might kink or slow water flow.
Is the Sediment Buster Worth It?
Roger’s verdict is that the Sediment Buster is a valuable addition to any tool kit—professional or DIY:
- Improved Speed and Effectiveness: The air bursts help dislodge stubborn sediment quickly.
- Less Risk of Valve Blockage: If the drain valve is jammed with debris, a few bursts can clear it without disassembling the tank.
- Easy to Use: Hook up a hose and compressor, then apply bursts. No special training required.
If you’re a homeowner, buying a Sediment Buster may cost less than paying a plumber multiple times for flushing. If you’re a plumber, this tool can reduce labor time on water heater clean-outs, leading to more satisfied clients.
Final Thoughts
Sediment buildup is the hidden enemy of water heaters, robbing you of hot water and driving up energy costs. Traditional draining methods often leave behind stubborn deposits, but the Sediment Buster uses pressurized air bursts to break them apart. Whether you handle your own water heater maintenance or you’re a plumbing professional looking for a more efficient service method, this tool shows real promise.
If you’re curious to try it yourself, there’s an affiliate link provided in Roger’s original video description. With proper usage, you can restore your water heater’s capacity, improve its heating speed, and extend its lifespan—all without resorting to a complete tank replacement.
