You can’t mitigate an emergency if you don’t know where to start. Knowing how to turn off your home water heater can help reduce leaks, intrusions, and electrical issues.
DFW homeowners can contact us for assistance if they cannot switch the water heater off during an emergency. Although we’re always available, there are a few powerful steps you can take to mitigate the situation.
Whether you have a gas or electric heater, these standardized steps always work. Call Sunny Service today for more information about turning off your water heater effectively.
When Should You Turn Off Your Water Heater?
You don’t need to do this daily. You should only locate and turn off your home water heater when doing repairs or if you notice a leak.
Regardless of the source, it’s essential to know the inner workings of a water heater before you ever need to switch it off. You’ll need to turn off the water heater in the following situations:
- You Notice a Leak Near the Tank or Pipe Connections
- Your Unit Is Making Strange Noises (Popping, Rumbling, etc)
- You’re Doing Repairs or Maintenance
- You’re Leaving Your Home for an Extended Period
- There’s a Burning Smell or Signs of Overheating
Step-by-Step: How to Turn Off an Electric Water Heater
Although we might not physically be there to guide you through it, here’s a step-by-step guide to turning off an electric water heater yourself:
- Turn Off the Circuit Breaker
Go to your home’s electrical panel and locate the breaker labeled “water heater.” Then, switch it to the ‘OFF’ position. Never work on an electric water heater without turning off the power first, as there is a high risk of shock.
- Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the cold water shut-off valve on top of the unit (usually a blue handle). Then, turn it clockwise to shut off the incoming water.
- Drain the Tank (Optional)
If you’re repairing or replacing the unit, connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and run it to a floor drain or outside.
Step-by-Step: How to Turn Off a Gas Water Heater
Although this process is similar to the shutdown process of an electric water heater, there are a few operational differences to note. Start by locating the main gas supply.
- Turn Off the Gas Supply
Locate the gas shut-off valve (typically near the bottom of the tank or on the gas line). Next, turn the valve 90 degrees perpendicular to the pipe (‘OFF’ position). For models with a control knob, turn the knob to the ‘OFF’ setting. - Turn Off the Water Supply
Follow the same process as you would with an electric unit—turn the cold water inlet valve clockwise until it stops.
- Turn off the Pilot Light (if applicable)
If your unit has a standing pilot, make sure the pilot light is out once the gas is turned off. Use caution when working near open flames or flammable gas.
Not Sure What Type of Water Heater You Have?
There are several ways to determine what kind of water heater you have. For an electrical heater, you’ll see thick electrical cables, and for gas units, a visible gas line.
Take note of these differences:
Electric water heaters have thick electrical cables going into the top and no gas lines.
Gas water heaters will have a visible gas line and a vent or flue.
Need Help with Your Water Heater in DFW?
No matter the size of the service, trust us to locate and service your struggling water heater. If a leak is holding you back from complete comfort, we have a sizable repair service to stop the leak. From here, we will restructure any piping that needs it.
Need help shutting off your home water heater due to a leak or structural damage? Look no further.
Sunny Service is one call away in Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Irving, and more.
