How to Shutdown Water Heater in an Emergency

(0:15) Hey guys, Jamey here today with Done Plumbing and Heating, and I’ll show you (0:19) how to shut down your water heater. If your water heater starts to leak, stops (0:23) producing hot water, or you feel it’s dangerous to operate, follow these (0:27) instructions to shut down your water heater. Call a professional for (0:31) your safety. If you smell gas, immediately exit the home and call (0:35) 9-1-1 from across the street. If your water heater is not working but you (0:40) cannot smell gas, turn off the gas supply. [Music]

If electric, turn off the power switch or the circuit breaker. Next, turn off the (0:55) cold water supply by closing the water supply valve. This valve can be found (1:00) above the water heater on one of the water lines entering the top, typically (1:04) the right side. You can also shut off the main water supply to your home if you (1:08) are unable to locate the shut-off for the water heater. Warning: if you close the main valve (1:12), open multiple faucets in the home to alleviate pressure. That’s an important (1:16) side note. If your shut-off valve is the older gate valve and it’s difficult to (1:20) turn, do not force it, as you can break it and cause bigger issues. Instead, turn off (1:26) your main water supply. If your water heater continues to leak, attach a hose (1:31) to the drain, run the hose to a drain or outside your home, and open the valve to (1:36) drain your water heater. We recommend turning on hot water at a faucet to (1:41) allow air to enter the system. Now that you have mitigated the issues with your (1:45) water heater, that’s a job well done and it’s time to call your professional. (1:49) [Music]