When you have a leaking water heater the first thing we recommend you do is turn off the water to the tank. Most water heaters have a shut off valve on the cold water line going into the water heater. Some valves are “gate” valves. They look like a wheel – turn that wheel clockwise as far as you can. Here are some friendly tips from your Melbourne, Florida plumber.
Other valves are “ball” valves. These valves have handles – turn the handle 180 degrees. By doing this, you will turn off the water going into the tank and prevent any further leakage. If the water heater valve is broken or you do not have one, you will have to turn off the main water valve to your home. Every home should have a main water valve.
Once your water is off to your tank, you will want to turn off the power supply to that heater. If your water heater is electric, you can turn off the power at the breaker box. If you have a gas water heater, you will have to turn off the dedicated gas valve on the gas line leading to your water heater tank.
Once your plumber arrives, he/she will drain your tank prior to replacing the tank. Keep in mind that until that happens, your tank may continue to leak out any remaining water inside. If a lot of water is coming out of the tank, you can screw a garden hose onto the drain at the bottom of the tank and then turn that drain valve to open.
Make sure you have the other end of that hose somewhere that water can run freely without causing any damage. Call Sun Plumbing if you need any plumbing service or repairs — our reps will get someone dispatched to you as soon as possible.
