How do I shut down a leaking water heater?
When water heaters start to leak from the bottom of the tank, it’s already a sign that it needs to be replaced. In the event of a leaking water heater, there are certain steps that you need to follow to perform an emergency shutdown.
Shutting down your water heater allows you to prevent the leak from getting worse and save you money in the process.
Whether your leak is coming from the top or bottom of your electric, gas, or even solar water heater, safety comes first. For electric or solar systems, always turn off the electricity at your power board—this is crucial because mixing water and electricity can be extremely dangerous. Most water heaters have their own fuse or circuit breaker, so you won’t lose power to your whole house.
If you have a gas water heater, you’ll need to turn off the gas supply. Look for the gas pipe running into the system and shut it off at the tap or lever valve. This helps prevent any risk of gas leaks while you deal with the water problem.
No matter the type of heater, isolating the water supply is key. Cutting off the water will keep the tank from continually refilling and leaking further until repairs or replacement can be made. Listed below are the general steps on how you can shut down your water heater.
Step One: Finding the Source of the Leak
Before you do anything else, take a moment to figure out exactly where your water heater is leaking. This can help determine whether the problem is a minor fix or if it’s time to start shopping for a new unit at Bunnings, Mitre 10 or your local supplier.
Check these common trouble spots:
- Top of the Tank: Look for drips or puddles around the inlet or outlet pipes. Sometimes a loose fitting or a worn-out valve is to blame.
- Bottom of the Tank: If you see water pooling under the heater itself, this usually means the tank has rusted through—a sign it’s reached the end of its life.
- Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve (T&P Valve): This safety feature is typically found on the side of the heater near the top. It’s normal for it to release a small amount of water, but if it’s leaking constantly, it could be faulty or clogged.
If the leak is coming from the T&P valve, try gently lifting the handle a few times to clear any debris. Sometimes this simple move is all it takes. If water keeps flowing, the valve probably needs replacing—a relatively affordable repair that can help prevent bigger headaches down the road.
Don’t forget to also check the pressure relief discharge pipe and all connections for any signs of moisture. Identifying the exact leak location will help you decide on your next steps and communicate more clearly with a professional if you end up calling one.
How Fast Can a Hot Water Leak Escalate?
A hot water leak doesn’t waste time making things worse. In as little as 24 hours, a small drip can turn into a significant flood that damages floors, walls, and anything else in its path. Left unchecked, you might find yourself dealing not only with lost hot water, but with warped hardwood, soaked carpets, or even structural damage—especially if the tank empties completely overnight.
Prompt action is key—the sooner you shut things down, the better your chance of minimizing hassle (and repair bills).
Should You Tackle the Repair Yourself or Call a Professional?
While it might be tempting to grab a wrench and attempt a quick DIY repair, most leaking water heaters are beyond a simple fix. These leaks often signal a larger underlying issue—think corrosion or a failing internal component—that can quickly escalate if not handled properly. Temporary home remedies may seem helpful but usually only delay the inevitable, potentially making the problem more expensive and hazardous over time.
If your water heater is leaking, it’s best to resist the urge to patch it up yourself. Not only can a failed attempt worsen the situation, but working with water heaters (especially gas units) brings serious risks if you’re not familiar with the system.
For peace of mind and a safe, lasting solution, reach out to a licensed plumber as soon as you’ve completed the shutdown steps. With an expert on the job, you’ll avoid unexpected complications and ensure your home stays safe and dry.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Hot Water System?
With the water heater now safely shut down, it’s time to decide on your next move: should you call for a repair, or look into replacing the unit altogether?
Here are a few key factors to keep in mind as you weigh your options:
- Age of the Water Heater: Most traditional tank water heaters last between 8 and 12 years. If yours is nearing (or past) that age, replacement is usually the more cost-effective choice.
- Extent of the Damage: Small leaks from fittings or valves might be repairable, but a leak from the bottom of the tank usually means the tank has corroded internally—at this point, a replacement is necessary.
- Frequency of Repairs: If you’re regularly calling the plumber or replacing parts, it may make more sense financially to invest in a new, reliable system (for example, models from Rheem or A.O. Smith are known for longevity).
- Energy Efficiency: Newer water heaters are significantly more energy-efficient compared to older units. Upgrading might lower your utility bills and could even qualify you for local rebates.
- Cost Considerations: Compare the price of major repairs (like new heating elements, thermostats, or tank repairs) against the cost of a full replacement. If repairs start approaching half the price of a new unit, replacement is often recommended.
Remember, attempting to patch or repair a seriously leaking tank is almost never worth it. A professional plumber can assess the situation quickly and help you decide on the most practical solution—saving you time, hassle, and possibly a flooded basement down the road.
Is It Normal for Pressure Relief Valves to Drip Water?
If you notice water dripping from the pressure relief valve (PRV or PTRV), don’t panic just yet. Occasional, minor leakage from these valves is actually a normal part of their operation. These safety devices are designed to release small amounts of water from time to time—especially when the system is relieving excess pressure due to heating cycles.
However, if you see a constant, steady leak (not just the occasional drip), that could indicate a problem and should be investigated further.
First, you turn off the power source. This could either be GAS or ELECTRICITY.
- For gas water heaters, twist the dial on top of the thermostat from the ON to the OFF position. Turn off the gas supply valve at the water heater by twisting the red knob clockwise till it stops.
- For electric water heaters, switch the circuit breaker for the water heater to the OFF position.
The next step is to turn off the water supply. Simply turn off the water supply by turning the handle clockwise until it stops.
Once the water supply and the power supply are turned off, it’s time to drain the water heater. Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and run the other end of the house to a lower place to drain rusty hot water and sediments without causing damage. Open a hot water faucet in the house to let air into the tank.
Lastly, open the relief valve to allow air in. Do this by flipping the handle up so that it sticks straight up or out. Be careful of scalding hot water.
