Help! How can I turn off my leaking water heater?

When water heaters fail, they can cause a big mess. Thankfully it's not too hard to shut off a leaking water heater.

To shut off a leaking water heater, follow these steps:

1. Turn Off the Power Supply:
   • For Gas Water Heaters: Locate the thermostat dial at the top of the unit and turn it from the "on" to the "off" position. If you smell gas, leave the home immediately and contact the gas company.
   • For Electric Water Heaters: Go to your circuit breaker panel and switch off the breaker that supplies power to the water heater. Alternatively, if there's a disconnect switch near the heater, turn that off.
2. Shut Off the Water Supply:
   • Find the cold water pipe connected to the water heater. There should be a shut-off valve on this pipe.
   • Gate Valve: Turn the handle clockwise until it stops.
   • Ball Valve: Rotate the lever a quarter turn to the off position. If you cannot reach the valve safely, you may need to shut off the main water supply for your home.
3. Drain the Water Heater (if necessary):
   • If you need to drain the water heater to prevent damage, attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Direct the other end of the hose to a suitable drainage area.
   • Open the hot water faucet closest to the heater to allow air in, which will help the tank drain more efficiently. It may take 10-30 minutes for the tank to fully drain.
4. Locate the Leak:
   • After shutting off the water and power, inspect the heater for the source of the leak. Common areas include the inlet and outlet connections, the temperature and pressure relief valve, and the drain valve. If the leak is from the tank itself, it may require replacement.

This video provides a good walkthrough of the steps to follow for a gas water heater:

By following these steps, you can effectively manage a leaking water heater and minimize potential water damage. If the situation seems severe or you're unsure, contacting a professional plumber is advisable.