Attach a hose to the drain valve located at the bottom of the tank, near the lower access panel. Place the other end of the hose in a safe location for the water to drain.

Open the drain valve on the water heater by turning it counter-clockwise.

Once you have a steady flow of water coming out of the hose, slowly close the cold water valve to the water heater by turning it clockwise.

If the water flow slows down, you can open a sink or tub faucet to help the tank drain quicker.