What to Do When You Have a Broken Water Heater
Have you ever woken up to a freezing cold shower because your water heater suddenly stopped working? This is a common and frustrating situation for many homeowners. Your water heater is essential for providing hot water for daily tasks such as bathing, washing dishes, and doing laundry. A broken water heater can also result in potential water damage if not addressed promptly. In this blog post, we will give you tips on what to do when you have a broken water heater.
Turn off the water and gas supply:
If you have a gas water heater, locate the gas valve and turn the switch to "off." If you have an electric water heater, find the breaker switch in your electrical panel and turn it off. This will prevent any further damage or potential safety hazards. Next, turn off the water supply valve, which is typically located on the water inlet pipe above the water heater.
Check the pilot light:
If you have a gas water heater, check the pilot light to ensure it is still lit. A pilot light that has gone out can be a simple fix that doesn't require a plumber. However, if the pilot light won't stay lit, it could indicate a more significant problem with the gas valve or thermocouple, and you'll need to call an emergency plumber.
Look for leaks:
If you see water around your water heater, turn off the water supply valve immediately. Leaks can cause significant damage, and the water can quickly spread to your floors or walls, resulting in mold and mildew growth. Call an emergency plumber right away to repair the damage.
Drain the water heater tank:
If your water heater is making strange noises such as popping, cracking, or hissing sounds, this could indicate sediment buildup inside the tank. Draining the tank can remove excess sediment and prolong the life of your water heater. However, if draining the tank doesn't fix the problem, call an emergency plumber.
Call an emergency plumber:
If you've tried the above-mentioned tips, and your water heater still isn't working, it's time to call an emergency plumber. A licensed plumber will have the necessary tools and expertise to diagnose the problem and repair your water heater correctly.
In conclusion, a broken water heater can be a significant inconvenience, but it doesn't have to be a complete disaster. By following these tips and contacting an emergency plumber promptly, you can minimize the damage and restore hot water to your home quickly. Always make sure to have a professional plumber's contact information handy so you can reach them in case of an emergency.
Contact a local company to learn more about emergency plumbing services.