What To Do If Your Water Heater Is Leaking?

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

Brick wall fading with a blue pipe and water spot with orange top with SERVPRO logo over the photo

If your water heater decides to spring a leak, then the safest thing you can do is immediately get in touch with the professionals specializing in water damage repair and restoration. 

However, before the help arrives, you can’t just let the water flood the property, right? After all, that can severely damage your property and adversely impact the wellbeing of people in it. 

Here are three steps you can take right away if your water heater is leaking:

1. Cut Off The Power Supply Right Away 

Switching off the power supply should be your first response. 

As long as the power stays on, it poses a serious safety risk. The hot water spraying out of the heater can potentially burn or scald your skin. If you have an electric water heater, then you also run the risk of electrocution. 

So, be very careful not to injure yourself as you try to cut off the power supply. If you cannot reach the switch, seal off the area as best as you can to avoid the leaking water spilling over into other areas and wait for the repair team. 

For gas water heaters, simply turn down the dial to the closed position.

2. Carefully Search For The Leakage Point 

If you managed to cut the power off, your next step is to search for the leakage point. 

You might need a flashlight to locate the damaged point if the leak is minor. Inspect the pipes and the valves to see if you can find water dripping from a busted pipe or a loose connection. 

In some cases, the cause might be a malfunctioning valve. If water keeps dripping after you close the valve, then ask the repair team to install a new one. 

3. Shut Off The Water Supply 

Finally, turn off the water supply to contain the spill before the leak turns into a puddle and water starts flowing everywhere. 

The water supply button or dial is usually located somewhere above the heater. Once you locate the dial, shut off the water supply so that water stops gushing everywhere. It might be tricky to do it if the damage is too extensive and you cannot reach the dial. In that case, switch off the main water supply for the entire house. 

At this point, we recommend that you reach out to experts to handle the repair process. 

Parting Thoughts 

Bad times don’t come calling, do they? That’s why it’s in your best interest to always remain prepared. 

Wondering how you can do just that? By having SERVPRO’s number on speed dial. 

From the water, fire, and mold damage to restoration, cleaning, and construction services, we specialize in them all.

Give us a call for your quote today at 706-866-5646

From Fort Oglethorpe to Varnell, Cohutta to Praters Mill, or anywhere in between, we take pride in serving your neighborhood! We are a locally owned and operated franchise with employees dedicated to providing a quality customer experience!