An emergency water heater leak can cause massive headaches if not repaired quickly and completely. Take these steps immediately if you notice your hot water heater is leaking.
On average, traditional water heaters last about 10 years. Tankless water heaters typically work for 18 years without major problems. While those time frames might sound reassuring, even the most reliable water heater will leak now and then, and that can mean serious damage to your home and your personal property if the leak goes unchecked for too long.
Imagine what dozens of gallons could do to your home. The destroyed flooring and the increased chance of mold infestation—nothing good comes from a leaking water heater.
Here are the steps you need to take if you discover leaking water coming from your water heater.
What To Do When You Have an Emergency Water Heater Leak
- Turn off the water supply.
- Turn off the power supply.
- Clean up the water.
- Locate the leak.
- Get professional help.
1. Turn off the water supply.
On your water heater, you should notice a valve that controls the cold water intake line. The first step you need to take when you have an emergency water heater leak is to cut off the water supply. If there’s no water going into your unit, no water will come out.
Be sure that the valve is completely closed before proceeding.
2. Turn off the power supply.
Next, turn off the power supply to your unit. For many gas models, turning off the power is as easy as flipping the on/off switch on the heater. In some cases, you may need to find the breaker switch that controls your water heater. If you have the manual to your unit handy, refer to it before trying to turn it off.
Once you have turned off the power supply, you will be able to clean up the water, find where the water is coming from, and assess any damage.
3. Clean up the water.
Standing water can increase your risk of slipping and injuring yourself as well as your risk of electric shock. It is always best to clean up the water that has leaked before trying to find and repair a leak. For this step, a wet/dry vacuum, towels, and a dehumidifier will be useful.
4. Locate the leak.
An emergency water heater leak usually occurs at one of a few common locations on your unit—the water lines leading in and out of the heater, the pressure relief valve, or the drain valve. If you can locate the leak, you will be able to determine your next steps, which may include calling a professional plumber.
5. Get professional help.
In some cases, you may be able to repair your water heater yourself. In others, you may need to reach out to a professional so they can make an assessment. If you can’t figure out what is causing your leak, your best course of action is to find a plumber you can trust.
Your emergency water heater leak can’t wait. We won’t make you.
Not sure how to fix your leaking water heater? Get in touch with the experts at Custom Plumbing of Arizona. Schedule your appointment today.