Stop it safely
- 1
Close the cold supply
The valve on the cold-water pipe going into the top of the heater. If it will not turn, close the house main.
- 2
Shut off fuel or power
Gas: turn the control to off or pilot. Electric: switch off its breaker.
- 3
Mind the heat
Water from the tank can be scalding. Let it cool before touching fittings or the drain valve.
- 4
Protect the room
Move stored boxes off the garage or closet floor.
- 5
Call
A plumber for the heater, a restoration contractor for the water.
Where it ends up in a Richardson house
In many Richardson ranches the heater sits in the garage, so water runs across the slab and under the door into the house. Closet units soak the adjoining hall and bedroom walls. Attic units are the most damaging: the pan overflows when a tank fails quickly, and water comes through the ceiling below.
Rust at the base, water in the pan, popping noises and rusty hot water are all signs a tank is near the end. Leaks from the relief valve pipe can mean pressure or temperature trouble and should be looked at by a plumber.
Water heater emergency questions
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Water heater leaking?
Shut off the water and fuel, then call. Answered 24/7.
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