I flush the sediment out of my water heater every time spring comes around. I have the water heater flushing on my spring to do list.
You might not have to flush the water heater sediment out that often but I do and it doesn't really take that much work.
Just hook a hose to it open the drain valve, the pressure relief valve and then turn the hot water side off and let the water drain down.
Once the water drains down then turn the cold water on and let it wash the sediment out for about 30 minutes.
Then close the drain valve and relief valve and turn the hot water valve back on and you should be go too go.
Flushing the sediment from your water heater often will increase the lifespan of your water heater.