Abstract: A water heater having a drain valve coupled to the water heater tank is provided. The drain valve has an inlet coupled to and communicating with the water heater tank, and an outlet aligned with the inlet along a straight line. A ball valve member having an opening formed therethrough is located between the inlet and outlet. A handle is coupled to the ball valve member for opening and closing the valve. The handle may be rotated rapidly 90 degrees between open and closed positions for opening and closing the valve. In the open position, a straight through path extends through the valve by way of the inlet, ball valve opening, and outlet.