Broken Water Heater? How to Handle a Flood in Your Home

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

Steps to Take if Your Water Heater Breaks

A broken water heater is a nasty surprise, especially if you’re in the middle of a shower. If yours starts making unusual noises or stops working completely, take these steps immediately to minimize the impact on your home.

Turn off the power supply. For a gas water heater, look for a dial on the top of the thermostat. For an electric water heater, turn the circuit breaker off.

Turn off the water supply. Turn the water valve clockwise (“righty tighty”) until it stops. It’s very important to turn off the supply of water to the heater. If you can’t turn the valve to the heater, you’ll have to turn off the water supply to the house.

Drain the water heater. Find the drain valve at the bottom of the water tank and attach a hose to it. Run the other end of the hose to a lower area where dirty water can safely drain, such as a basement drain. Open the drain valve, using a screwdriver if necessary.

Open the pressure relief valve. Flip the valve on to keep a vacuum from forming while the water is draining. Caution – the water may be very hot.

Rinse the water heater with cold water. Once the water heater has been completely drained, rinse it with cold water to flush out any remaining sediments.

If your water heater breaks and leaks water everywhere in your home or business, call the experts at SERVPRO of Clifton.  Their certified professionals are specially trained in water damage restoration. Using non-invasive moisture detection probes and sensors, they will determine the extent of the damage, and then develop a comprehensive water damage restoration plan. From water extraction and drying to repairing drywall and cabinets, they can return your home or business to its preloss condition.

SERVPRO of Clifton ~ 973-928-3705