[svHyLyte]

Most new tanks have a temp/pressure relief valve in addition to a regular faucet drain. I'm fortunate not to have to worry about draining, winterizing etc..

I will look for a bronze check valve. Last night the water pump ran for a couple seconds every hour. Checked the water heater... sure enough the hose had got soft again and was dripping. The hot water in the tank really does work it's way upstream into the water supply line.

Check out Groco Check Valves.

Inexpensive and effective.