How to Turn Off Your Water Heater
Whatever the situation, whether you have a water leak, a gas leak, or the pilot light goes out, it’s a good idea to be informed of how to properly switch off your hot water heater. It is critical that the water heater is turned off before commencing any sort of maintenance on it. When there is easy access to the rear settings and the supply pipe, the technique for turning it off is usually straightforward and straightforward. 1. First and foremost, you must find the water heater. The majority of the time, they may be discovered in utility closets or in the garage or attic.
If you have a gas water heater, the first step should be to locate the temperature dial, which is normally located in the bottom of the tank near the front.
The first step in repairing an electric water heater is to locate the circuit breakers in your property.
Make a note of the breaker line that supplies electricity to your heater and turn it off.
- Locate the water heater’s piping line, which is normally at or at the top of the unit.
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- Drain the supply by placing the garden hose outdoors or in a bucket.
- The next step will be to identify the gas supply line and the valve that controls the gas supply.
- To turn off the gas supply, turn the lever in a perpendicular direction or the knob in a clockwise direction.
- Find the relief valve, which is often located at or at the top of the water heater.
- That’s all there is to it!
- On YouTube, there is a video showing how to turn off a water heater.
5 Simple Steps to Turn Off Water Heater
Gas or water leaks are some of the things that might cause the most anxiety in a person. However, if you know how to switch off a water heater, you won’t have to worry about this all of the time. When you hear your digital alarm go off, now is not the moment to worry or do anything stupid. Even before you hire a plumber, you must switch off all of the utilities to prevent a gas or water leak from spreading.
How to Turn Off Water Heater
Heat exhaustion, unusual noises, and other warning signals indicate that you are in danger, and you must take action immediately. So, if you want to learn how to switch off a water heater, then follow these simple steps: 1.
Step 1. Disconnect from the Power Source
The first step is to locate your water heater’s power source and disconnect it from the grid.
If there is an electric unit, make certain that the circuit breaker is turned off before proceeding. When dealing with the gas unit, look for the dial that is next to the thermostat and turn it in the other way.
Step 2. Turn the Water Off
This procedure should not be performed until you are certain that the electricity connection to the water heater has been switched off fully. If you have an electric tankless water heater or a gas tankless water heater, they both have numerous types of handles to choose from. Some handles are circular, and all that is required to switch them off is a little rotation to the right of the handle. With this operation, you allow cold water to flow into the sink and tubs, and hot water will no longer be available to those fixtures.
Navigate to a valve near the meter and flip it in the other way by removing the box and turning it back.
Step 3. Carefully Drain the Water in the Tank
Check the bottom of the tank to see if there is a place where you can attach a hose to drain the water. Insert the hose’s other end into a floor drain or a bathtub until all of the hot water has been drained. To find out if there is any special advice concerning safety when draining water, carefully read the product handbook. The first step in figuring out how to switch off a hot water heater is to cut off both the electricity and the water supply. Once this is completed, you will be able to reduce any possible risk that leaks or a faulty propane gas water heater may provide.
Step 4. Label Your Circuit Breaker
It is possible that the content of your circuit breaker is complex and ambiguous. This will need the use of labels to ensure that you are aware of the original position of each component. In the event of an emergency, and you are forced to turn off the power totally, those labels will be quite useful. If you have a circuit breaker that has already been labeled, carefully inspect each component to discover its purpose. You don’t want somebody to assume you shut off the electricity when you actually did not.
Step 5. Practice Shutting Off Water Heater
When their heater leaks or their alarm goes off, the majority of individuals worry and get befuddled. The only way to avoid this confusion is to be aware of how to switch off the water heater in advance of when it is needed. Maintaining the practice of emptying your water heater every six months will help you become more familiar with the procedure. Make a practice of turning on and off the hot water heater supply that runs throughout the entire house. Become adept at opening the valve carefully, since twisting it too rapidly might exacerbate the situation.
This understanding is also applicable when it comes to cutting off the water supply to all of the appliances in your home.
When your water heater is heating, you will not want to make the situation worse by not knowing how to switch it off when it is heating.
How to Turn Off a Gas Water Heater
When their heater leaks or their alarm goes off, most individuals worry and get befuddled. Only by being aware of how to turn off a water heater in advance can you avoid being caught off guard. Regularly emptying your water heater every six months can help you get more familiar with the process. Get comfortable with the process of turning on and off the hot water heater supply that runs throughout the entire home. Become adept at opening the valve carefully, since twisting it too rapidly might exacerbate the problem.
In addition, this information is useful when shutting down all of the water-using equipment in your home.
The terror that you experience during crises can be reduced with some frequent practice. When your water heater is heating, you will not want to make matters worse by not knowing how to turn it off.
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Heater Valve
You will see a red or black button on the front of the tank if you look closely. These buttons are sometimes buried under insulating materials, and you must remove the insulating material in order to show the button. The switch should be moved or turned from the “on” position to the “off” position. When you turn off the heater, the pilot light will cease operating and the burner will stop heating. Remove the heat shield and inspect the inside for evidence of heat or flames before replacing it.
Step 2: Turn Off the Line that Supplies Gas
If you wish to go outside and hear the heater hissing, turn off the gas line valve before you leave the house. Simply go to the heater and turn off the gas valve that is situated on the gas line near the heater. The lever should be perpendicular to the gas line when it is fully extended. If you can’t locate any valves, follow the gas line until you come to a handle that functions as a switch for the light. Gas line valves are usually straightforward to find, and you won’t have to spend much time looking for them.
Step 3: Shut Down the Water Heater
If you’re going to be away from home during the winter, make sure you drain the water from the tank to prevent it from freezing. Turn off the water heater and leave it off for 12 hours to enable the water to cool and prevent scalding from occurring. You drain your tank, be sure to do the following: Make sure you have a bucket underneath the pressure release valve so that the water flows directly into the bucket. Open the relief valve to enable the steam to escape, and then gently release the lever to close the valve completely.
- Pull the hose to the specific location where you want the water to drain from.
- You should drain the water into your garden if you have one if you have a home with a garden.
- Allow for complete drainage of the water by keeping the drain valve open until the water is completely gone.
- Alternatively, if the water does not drain, it is possible that mineral deposits have accumulated in the drainage channels.
- Reattach the hose and turn on the valve one more to complete the process.
How to Turn Off an Electric Water Heater
Make careful to remove the water from the tank if you’re going away during the winter to prevent it from freezing. Allow for 12 hours of cooling time after turning off the heater so that you don’t get burned by hot water. Check the following items before draining your tank: Place a bucket under the pressure relief valve so that the water drains directly into the bucket when the valve opens. After opening the relief valve and allowing the steam to escape, slowly and gently remove the lever. Connect a hose to the drain valve, which is situated near the bottom of the container.
A drainage area should be located at a higher height than the water tank, unless otherwise specified.
Pouring water out of the faucets, switch off the cold water valve and turn on the hot water taps.
Followed by closing any and all of the house’s faucets that are currently open A mineral deposit might be blocking the drainage passages, causing the water to not drain properly.
Close the valve and then remove the hose to ensure that all deposits have been removed from the system. The hose should be attached once again, and the valve should be opened.
Step 1: Turn Off the Breaker
Locating the two-pole circuit breaker is the first step in figuring out how to switch off an electric water heater. It has a current of around 30 to 50 amps and is generally labeled. Even if you have turned off the electric water heater, it is always a good idea to cut off the electricity at the breaker panel. If the breaker is equipped with lock-out lugs, secure them to the breaker. If you are concerned that you will make a mistake, identify the breaker with paper tape to prevent this from happening.
They should refrain from getting close to the service panel or the water heater until you are finished with them.
When replacing the water heater element, it is dangerous to expose yourself to electric shock or high temperatures.
Step 2: Put a Tag on the Breaker
Safety regulations require that you label everything you are working on in order to prevent anyone from being injured. When working with electricity, it’s best to keep the area closed off to prevent prospective victims from entering the area. Mark the location and the equipment to serve as a warning to anyone who might unintentionally walk too close to the site. When it comes to the home, simply turning off the breaker isn’t adequate because everyone is exposed to the same hazard. The use of identification and restrictions to notify family members about potential threats would be extremely beneficial.
Don’t take the concept of safety lightly because even a single electrocution can result in death.
Putting paper tape on the breaker and labeling it “Do Not Touch” is another technique to ensure safety.
Step 3: Cool Off the Water
Before you begin any repairs, you will need to let the water in the tank to cool down. It is advisable to switch off the heater in order to prevent the water from being overheated. Set aside some time for the water to gently and gradually cool on its own. You should avoid attempting to chill the water by adding cold water to the container. Simply turn on a faucet in your home and let it to flow for an extended period of time. After some time, the water should feel lukewarm, which indicates that it is okay to begin your repairs.
Before using hot water for showering, laundry, or dishwashing anywhere in the house, wait one hour.
Step 4: Turning Water Off
Water tanks should always be equipped with a shut-off valve located on the outlet outside the home’s perimeter. The tank’s placement prevents it from accumulating an excessive amount of internal pressure. When working on the hot water tank, make sure to turn off the cold water supply. If your tank has two valves, locate the one that allows cold water to enter and shut it off completely. When facing the tank, the valve is normally on your right as you stand facing it. Normally, two valves should not be found on a single supply line, therefore use caution when doing this task.
The cold line is used for cold water, while the hot pipe is used for hot water, as the name implies.
Alternatively, you might choose to switch on a water faucet in your home. The hot water supply line is the one that vibrates as the water flows out of the faucet. Make a label for the cold line to serve as a reminder of which valve should be kept closed at all times.
Step 5: Drain the Hot Water Tank
As you learn more about how to switch off the hot water heater supply, you’ll come across a few interesting facts. It is possible to carry out various chores without having to empty the water tank. While changing or testing the thermostat or monitoring the power supply unit, you can leave the tank at its maximum capacity of 80%. Draining the water is required before doing activities such as removing or replacing an element or flushing sediments. The accumulation of deposits in the bottom part of the tank might have an impact on the heating of the water in that section.
Wrap Up
Clearly, shutting off water heaters of any sort has never been as simple as it is right now. The only prerequisite is that you know how to switch off your water heater. Yes, it is as straightforward as that. In the comments area, please tell whether your experience was similar or different from mine. Thanks for reading. We’ll be delighted to benefit from your first-hand knowledge. Continue to keep in mind the following summary of the processes outlined in this article:
- As you can see, shutting off any type of water heater has never been so simple. Learning how to switch off a water heater is the sole qualification. Simply said, it’s that straightforward. In the comments area, please tell whether your experience has been similar or different. Our team will appreciate the opportunity to benefit from your first-hand knowledge. It is important to remember the following summary of the stages outlined in this article:
How To Turn Off a Water Heater
In the case of water heaters, there are several warning indicators to check for that every homeowner should be familiar with. The first thing you should do if you detect any of these indicators is to switch off your water heater immediately. Any abnormal noises, overheating, or unusual behavior from your water heater, as well as the smell of gas anyplace in the house, are all indications that you should shut down your water heater. In general, the longer you wait, the more probable it is that the situation may deteriorate.
How to turn off a water heater:
- If you have a gas water heater, go to your thermostat and turn the dial on the top to the “off” position
- Otherwise, call your water heater manufacturer. Switching off the associated circuit breaker if you have an electric water heater is recommended. Find the water valve and crank it as far clockwise as you possibly can
- This will cut off your water. Locate the drain valve, which is located at the bottom of your water heater tank. Connect a hose to the drain valve and connect the other end of the line to a location where hot water may be securely evacuated
- If necessary, replace the drain valve. Close and open one of the hot water faucets in your home to allow air to enter the tank, which will allow the hot water to begin to drain
- Make that the relief valve handle is pointing straight up and that the handle is not twisted.
It is understandable that many homeowners may be hesitant to empty their water heaters themselves if they are not familiar with these sorts of home repairs. Then, after shutting off the gas or electricity to your water heater, you should call Flame Heating and Cooling at 586-582-1700 to speak with a professional plumber. If you discover anything wrong with your water heater, it is likely that you will require the services of a professional to repair it.
When You Should Turn off Your Water Heater
When it comes down to it, a water heater is a really straightforward item. You can rely on a tank water heater to provide you with consistent hot water for 10-15 years — all it wants in return is for you to do some routine maintenance on it. However, there are occasions when the unit’s upkeep must be taken into mind. A common question we receive from consumers is, “Do I need to switch off my water heater if.?” The following are responses to three frequent circumstances.
When the main water supply is shut off
It is possible that the main water supply will be switched off in a variety of situations. When this occurs, many homeowners ask if it is safe to leave the water heater turned on or whether it should be turned off as well. Yet, turning off the water heater may not be absolutely essential in the majority of circumstances; however, doing so will not be harmful any way.
However, there are two instances in which you should turn off the unit to avoid excessive pressure or heat from building up inside the tank: (1) When the unit is not in use; and (2) When the unit is in use but not in use.
- It is possible that the main water supply will be switched off in a variety of situations, including emergencies. A common concern among homeowners when this occurs is whether it is safe to leave the water heater turned on or if it should be turned off completely. In most circumstances, it is not required to switch off the water heater, although it is not harmful to do so if you choose to. When you should switch off the unit to prevent excessive pressure or heat from building up inside the tank, there are two reasons to do so: first, you should prevent excessive pressure or heat from building up inside the tank by preventing the following:
When you go on vacation
When you travel on vacation or anticipate being away from home for a lengthy period of time, you should follow the standard procedures for preparing your house. You may make changes to your heating and cooling systems, program automated lighting, and place a hold on your mail. But what about the water heater in your home? While it may seem rational to turn off the water heater when it is not in use in order to conserve energy, this may not be as advantageous as you may expect. For starters, turning on and off the unit may be disruptive and difficult for the unit.
Instead, use the “VAC” mode on your water heater (which is a typical feature on contemporary water heater types) or lower the water temperature to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
When there’s a leak
The unit should be turned off and the water supply should be turned off until the problem is remedied. A leak can occur for a variety of causes, including age or a valve fault.
Plumbers in Murrieta and Winchester, CA
If you have any further concerns concerning your tank or tankless water heater, or if you believe it’s time for maintenance or repair, call the local plumbing experts at Liberty Plumbing for assistance. If you’d like to book an appointment, please contact (951) 760-4215.
In Case of an Emergency, Shut Off Your Water Heater!
The following steps will show you how to turn off your water heater if it is leaking or not performing correctly. This will prevent damage to your system and property. To switch off your gas water heater, turn the gas shut-off valve to the OFF position. If it’s an electric heater, turn the power switch off or turn the circuit breaker to the “OFF” position on the circuit breaker panel. If you’re not sure which type of water heater you have, electric water heaters feature alternating current power wires instead of a big exhaust pipe on the top.
- Alternatively, shut off the main water valve to your home.
- Place the other end of the hose in a lower area where it will not be harmed by the hot, rusty water that will be coming out.
- Remove the pressure relief valve from the tank to allow air to enter the tank while it is being drained.
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- We’ve arrived on the scene and are ready to work.
EMERGENCY WATER HEATER SHUTDOWN PROCEDURES
Find out how to turn off your water heater if it’s leaking or not performing correctly so that you don’t do any further harm to your system or property. For gas water heaters, switch the shut-off valve to the OFF position first. If it’s an electric heater, turn the power switch off or turn the circuit breaker to the “OFF” position on your circuit breaker panel. For those who aren’t sure which type of water heater they have, electric water heaters feature alternating current power wires instead of a large exhaust pipe on the top.
Alternatively, turn off the main water valve to your home’s plumbing system.
Placing the other end of the hose in a lower area where it will not be harmed by the hot, rusty water is recommended.
In order for air to be let into the tank while it is emptying, open the pressure relief valve.
In your house, you may achieve the same outcome simply turning on any hot water faucet. 5) Contact Burton right away if you require professional assistance. We’ve arrived on the scene and are prepared to begin.
Water Heater Shutdown Instructions:
- In the event that your water heater is leaking or not performing correctly, here’s how to turn it off in order to prevent damage to your system and property. When using a gas water heater, switch the gas shut-off valve to the OFF position. If it’s an electric heater, turn the power switch off or turn the circuit breaker to the OFF position on the circuit breaker panel. If you’re not sure which type of water heater you have, electric water heaters feature alternating current power wires instead of a large exhaust pipe on the top. 2.Turn the water supply counterclockwise until it comes to a complete halt. Alternatively, close the main water valve to your home. 2.Connect a regular garden hose to the drain faucet at the bottom of the heater to drain it and prevent water damage to your property. Place the other end of the hose at a lower area where it will not be harmed by the hot, rusty water. Then, turn the drain faucet counter-clockwise to clear the drain. 4. Open the pressure relief valve to allow air to enter the tank while it is being drained. 5. Any hot water faucet in your house will provide the same results. 5. Get in touch with Burton right now for experienced advice! We’ve arrived on the scene and are prepared to begin.
- DISCONNECT THE WATER SUPPLY. Turn the handle on the water valve in a clockwise direction until it comes to a complete halt. Switch off the main water valve for the entire home
- Then drain the water heater. If the water doesn’t stop, turn off the water heater. Connect a hose to the drain valve, which is located at the bottom of the tank. The other end of the hose should be routed to a lower location where you may safely discharge the rusty, hot water without causing any damage. Raise the temperature of a hot water faucet in the house in order to allow air to enter the tank
- OPEN THE RELIEF VALVE Flip the handle so that it is pointing straight out or up from the table. (USE CAUTION: scalding hot water is present)
How to Turn Off Your Water Heater
When it comes to your water heater, things might get a little crazy. They may begin to leak, or a digital alarm (if the water heater is equipped with one) may begin to ring if the water heater begins to fail. Maybe you’re in a state of panic because the water heater alarm is going off or because a geyser of water is threatening to destroy your home or other property. The first step is to switch off the water heater. Do you, on the other hand, know how? Here’s how to quickly and securely switch off your water heater, including how to turn off the electricity to the water heater.
How to Turn Off Your Water Heater
Use the instructions below to securely and efficiently turn off your water heater in the safest and most effective manner. The following are the actions to take in order to switch off your water heater:
- Remove the electricity from the source
- Turn off the water supply. Take care while draining your water heater. Circuit breakers should be clearly labeled. Walk through the process of turning off your water heater before you need to
Close all electrical circuits. Turn off the water supply; turn off the lights. Caution must be used when draining your water heater; Circuit breakers should be labeled. Practice turning down your water heater before you need to do so; and
1. Turn off the power source
This step must be completed first in order to avoid injuring yourself or damaging the heater. Depending on whether or not you have an electrical unit, you must shut down the circuit breaker for your hot water heater (it will either be located on your main circuit breaker panel or, less often, near the heater itself). If you have a gas unit, turn the dial near the thermostat to the ‘Off’ position. Making sure the breaker for your hot water heater is turned off or turning off the dial adjacent to the thermostat is critical before continuing with the rest of the process.
If you require assistance in locating the breaker panel or the dial to a gas unit, please do not hesitate to contact us for further assistance.
2. Turn off the water
Only proceed with this step if you are certain that the power to your water heater has been turned off. The Best Way to Turn Off Your Hot Water Heater It’s possible that your water heater has several distinct sorts of handles on it. If you find a circular handle on the valve, turn the handle clockwise to shut off the water supply line. It will be linked to the cold water input on the water heater. Once it is completely closed, but not overtightened, no more water will enter the heater; nevertheless, your sinks and tubs will continue to have access to cold water, and they will continue to receive warm water until the heater is completely emptied.
After opening the box, you will need to spin the valve nearest to your house (which is often outside your home and near the curb in newer suburbs), and after doing so, you will need to seal the box again.
3. Drain your water heater carefully
You will find a drain valve at the bottom of the tank, which may be used to connect the tank to a home. Connect it to your tub drain, a floor drain, or an exterior drain where the hot water will not harm people or damage your lawn. Using the drain valve, you may evacuate water from your tank once it has been properly installed. Draining your tank is an additional step beyond simply turning off your water heater, but it is necessary if your digital read-out suggests it or if you notice a leak from the body of the water heater that you can stop by draining the tank.
Even after you have turned off the power, the tank will still be full with scorching hot water, so empty it carefully and avoid coming into touch with it; the temperature will remain high for several hours after you have turned off the power.
Label your circuit breakers
Many circuit breakers regulate numerous things at the same time, and the sequence in which they do so is not always obvious. Labeling your breakers ahead of time is the easiest method to prepare yourself in the event that you need to completely shut down the electricity in your home or the electricity to a specific device immediately. If the previous owner labeled your circuit breakers, go ahead and check them to make sure they are accurate; believing that you have turned off the electricity to an item or a section of your home when you have not is dangerous.
Walk through shutting off your heater before you have to.
When an alarm goes off or when someone notices a leak spreading over the floor, everyone experiences a brief moment of terror and disorientation. If you practice shutting off your water heater, you will be more familiar with any oddities or unusual processes your water heater has before you need them. If you keep your water heater in good working order by emptying it every three to six months, you will be even more comfortable in the case of an emergency water heater failure. Also, make sure to turn the water back on in your residence when you’ve finished.
If you are unfamiliar with how to operate your main water valve, ask the plumber to demonstrate the proper process when they arrive to inspect your heater.
This recommendation, similar to the one for a circuit breaker, is applicable to more than just your water heater.
When you have a leak, you don’t want to waste time hunting for it; but, the main water valves might be difficult to locate at times.
Turn Off The Gas Supply To The Water Heater
What is the procedure for turning off the gas feed to the water heater? This is a question that we are asked rather regularly by our consumers. It is an excellent question, and one that every homeowner should be familiar with, just in case they experience difficulties with their water heater in the future. It’s possible that you’re smelling gas coming from your water heater, that it’s not operating as expected, or that the water heater is leaking, and it’s a good idea to know how to switch off the gas.
- Knowing how to turn off the gas at both ends of the house may be really beneficial.
- To locate the gas shut off valve on a water heater, search for a single handle valve that is often positioned at the bottom of the unit, approximately a foot or two out from the unit.
- To turn off the gas, crank this valve counter-clockwise until it stops turning.
- This is to turn the gas off to the entire home.
- The gas meter shut off is positioned exactly next to the gas meter, which may be found on the outside of the home, as seen in the illustration below.
- After turning the valve a quarter turn until it is perpendicular to the gas pipe, the gas line is closed and the flow of gas is shut off completely.
- In the event of an emergency or if you smell gas, leave the house immediately and call your gas provider.
You can also read our FAQs to learn more about typical water heater problems. John Heaters contributed to this article. Facebook|Google+|Twitter
Here’s How to Easily Turn off the Gas to Your Water Heater
When it comes to turning off the gas supply to your water heater, there are a variety of things to consider. For example, if you are intending to replace a water heater, you will need to turn off the gas in order to complete the task. Nonetheless, there may be more important—and more urgent—reasons for you to take this action. Immediately turn off the gas to your water heater if you detect the odor of gas in the area of your water heater (or anywhere else in your home, for that matter).
Safety Considerations
The smell of gas indicates the presence of a probable gas leak, which must be found and rectified as soon as possible. Despite the fact that natural gas is odorless, utility companies add a chemical that has the odor of rotten eggs to their gas lines so that consumers may quickly detect the presence of a gas leak. A gas leak, if left untreated, has the potential to cause an explosion or a fire. If the gas smell is particularly strong, leave the premises immediately and contact the gas utility company for assistance.
Following that, you may contact the utility provider and request that they come to your location to find and repair the leak.
Gas companies are very aware of the potential risk posed by gas leaks, and they are quite active in their efforts to contain them.
By leaving the water heater’s open flame unattended, you run the risk of detonating any gas leak that occurs anyplace in your home.
Materials
To turn off the gas to your water heater, follow this simple procedure. You may use it for normal repairs and maintenance or as an emergency measure if you smell gas in the house.
Clear Around the Water Heater
- Remove any things from the area surrounding the water heater so that you can have access to the gas pipe and shutdown valve. It will also assist the gas provider in doing a rapid examination of the issue if they are looking for leaks if the area has been cleaned.
Locate the Gas Pipe
Locate the gas pipe that supplies gas to your water heater, as well as the shutdown valve on that pipe. This is not the valve that is placed on the control box that is mounted on the water heater, but rather a valve that is positioned along the length of the pipe run. Due to variations in installation and installation timing, the valve may appear differently depending on who performed the installation. Most plumbers install a shutdown valve that is actuated by a lever or knob that is positioned within a few feet of the water heater control box.
Tip
- If your water heater is old or was built by a novice, the shutdown valve may be missing or may be positioned a long distance away from the water heater, which is a serious safety concern. To locate it, trace the gas pipe back from the water heater burner until you come across the valve (see illustration). If you discover that there is no cutoff valve at all, your only choice will be to turn off the main gas valve at the gas meter
- However, this is not recommended.
Shut off the Gas Valve
- Turn the shutdown valve handle a quarter turn until it comes to a complete halt. When the valve is shut off, the handle should be at a 90-degree angle to the course of the pipe itself
- A handle parallel to the pipe indicates that the valve is still in the open position. In addition, you should double-check that the water heater has been switched off completely. Make sure the burner has not lit by increasing the temperature setting on the control box, then checking inside the access hatch at the bottom of the heater to ensure it has not been started.
When to Call a Professional
You should contact your gas provider right away if you suspect a gas leak so that they can examine and rectify the problem. Once again, this is a complimentary service provided by the gas utility provider. Even after turning off the water heater, you may still smell gas. In this case, turn off the gas at the meter and contact the gas company.
Where Gas Leaks Occur
In the vast majority of cases, a utility technician will discover a very simple source of a gas leak, such as a minor gap in a connection between pipe segments or a connection between a flex tube and a gas pipe that has been disconnected. It is possible that the problem may be resolved in minutes, and that the answer is as easy as tightening the connections. The use of a soap-and-water combination to cover the joints of gas pipe joints and then looking for bubbles is an old reliable approach for testing for gas pipe leaks.
Technicians will most likely use an electronic detecting wand to check for the presence of gas around each joint and determine which ones need to be tightened or replaced in the future. After the expert has finished with the repair, he or she should turn on the water heater for you.
Water Heater Safety Tips
- Keep the area surrounding the water heater free of obstructions. Many people utilize the flat top of their water heaters for storage or built-in shelves, but these areas should always be kept clear to allow for simple access and necessary safety procedures to be followed. Aside from that, appropriate ventilation is required for water heaters as a fire protection strategy. Combustibles such as paints, chemicals and solvents should never be kept next to or on top of your water heater.
How to Turn off the Water for Plumbing Repairs
When doing plumbing repairs on any of the fixtures or pipelines in your home’s plumbing system, it is frequently essential to turn off the water supply to the whole building. There are at least three distinct sites where you may turn off the water, and your choice of location will be determined by the location of the leak or the necessity for plumbing repair services. In most cases, no special equipment are necessary to turn off the water. Here are many sites where your home’s water supply may be turned off, as well as instructions on how to select the most appropriate one.
Watch Now: How to Turn Off Water for Plumbing Repairs
Your first and best option is to turn off the water at the source of the problem, such as the faucet or the toilet. If the problem is with a refrigerator or ice maker, a dishwasher, a washing machine, or any other device that uses water, turn off the water at the source of the problem. By cutting off the water locally in this manner, other fixtures linked to your home’s plumbing system will be able to continue to work while you do the necessary repairs elsewhere. The shut-off valves for fixtures and appliances will vary in appearance and placement, but in general, they will be located fairly close to the fixture or appliance.
- Your first and best option is to turn off the water at the source of the problem, such as the faucet or the toilet. If the problem is with a refrigerator or ice maker, dishwasher, washing machine, or any other equipment that is connected to the water supply, turn off the water at the source. By turning off the water locally in this manner, other fixtures linked to your home’s plumbing system will be able to continue to work while you do the necessary repairs. The look and position of the fixture shut-off valves will vary, but in most cases, they will be located relatively close to the fixture or appliance being shut off.
You get the gist of it. It is recommended that each fixture or appliance be provided with some type of local shut-off valve. However, if you are unable to locate the shut-off valves, do not be concerned. Turning off the main water supply valve, which is located near the water meter, will switch off the water supply. The Spruce Tree
Turning the Water off at the Main Shutoff Valve
Identify the main shut-off valve for the house in the event that your leak is located anywhere in the main branch line or if there is no fixture shut-off valve near the fixture you need to repair or replace. Most of the time, this may be located in a utility space near where the main water line enters the home, or on an outside wall near the water meter. This valve will always be positioned on the same side of the house as the water meter, and it is often a rather large valve in comparison to the others.
If you open the lowest faucet in your home (such as a basement faucet or a foundation-level outside faucet) and the highest faucet in your home after shutting off the main shut-off valve, it will enable water that has accumulated in the plumbing system to drain away.
Tip
The branch valves in certain homes may be used to cut off the water supply to specific branch lines in the home, which can save money on water bills.
It is planned that these valves will be installed along the major branch pipes and in easily accessible utility locations. For example, water pipes that feed outside hose faucets are frequently controlled by in-line valves that exclusively regulate the pipes that go to the outdoor faucets.
Turning the Water off at the Water Heater
When a hot water pipe is leaking, or if you need to repair or replace a water heater, shut-off valves are positioned near the water heater to prevent the water from flowing. A water heater is equipped with two shut-off valves. A cold water input valve (typically distinguished by a blue handle) is responsible for supplying cold water to the water heater from the main supply. If you need to repair or replace your water heater, this is the valve to turn off. The hot water output line is also equipped with a valve that prevents any hot water from leaving the water heater from flowing out.
This valve is frequently identified by a red handle, which indicates that it regulates hot water.
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Turning the Water off at the Water Meter
Finally, you might be able to turn off the water directly at the water meter. Water meter boxes may include two shutdown valves, one on the customer side of the meter and the other on the municipal side, depending on the manufacturer. The usage of this method should only be used as a last option since in many areas, homeowners are prohibited from accessing any portion of the plumbing system located on the street side of the water meter. Because the plumbing lines beyond the meter are legally the property of the city, you should avoid touching this valve unless you have no other choice—for example, if the main shut-off valve on the house side is either non-existent or not functioning.
How to Turn Off a Gas Water Heater
When going away for a lengthy amount of time, it is usually a good idea to turn off your gas water heater to avoid any problems. It is more cost effective to turn off your gas water heater when you will not be using it for a period of time. It also helps minimize overheating problems that may occur while you are not there to take care of them. However, this isn’t the only reason you might need to turn off your heater at some point. The shutting down of the water heater is an emergency operation that can avert a tragedy if you discover the bottom of the water heater is leaking, the pressure-relief valve is spouting water, or you hear the hiss of gas coming from anyplace around the water heater.
How to Turn Off a Gas Water Heater (with Pictures) iStock/Getty Images image courtesy of Olivier Verriest
Water Heater Shut Off Valve
When you’re going to be gone for a long amount of time, it’s always a good idea to switch off your gas water heater to conserve energy. It’s smart to turn off your gas water heater when you’re not going to be using it for a while to save money on gas and to avoid overheating problems that may occur while you’re not present to deal with them. There are a variety of other reasons why you may need to turn off your heater. The shutting down of the water heater is an emergency operation that can avert a tragedy if you detect the bottom of the water heater is leaking, the pressure-relief valve is spouting water, or you hear gas hissing from anyplace around the heater.
Even if the technique is straightforward, understanding how to carry it out is essential. Using a Gas Water Heater: How to Turn It Off iStock/Getty Images image courtesy of Oliver Verriest
Turn Off the Gas Line Valve
It’s a good idea to switch off the gas valve on the gas supply line as well if you’re going to be away from home for a lengthy amount of time or hear hissing coming from the heater. The gas line should have a shut-off valve someplace near the heater, which you should be able to locate. To turn off the gas, crank the gas valve 1/4 turn until the lever is perpendicular to the gas line, then turn the valve off. If there isn’t a valve near the heater, follow the gas line until you locate one that works.
If you are unable to locate it for any reason, you should call your gas utility for advice.
Turn Off the Water Heater
If you want to leave your home during the winter, when temperatures may drop below freezing point and cause the water in the tank to freeze, you should drain the water heater as a safety measure. Wait 12 hours after turning off the gas to allow the water in the tank to cool down in order to prevent being scalded by the hot water. To empty the tank, follow these steps:
- Place a bucket beneath the discharge pipe of the pressure relief valve that has been left open. Pressurize and depressurize the tank by opening and maintaining the pressure relief valve in an open position. Release the lever in a gentle manner
- Drain the tank’s contents using a hose connected to its drain valve at the bottom. Run the hose to a spot where the water may be securely drained and turned off. It is normally preferable if this place is at a lower elevation than the rest of the property. Draining the water into your garden is a good technique to prevent it from being wasted. Shut off the cold water supply to the heater and turn on one or more of the house’s hot-water taps
- Pour water down the drain and let it run until it is completely drained. Drain the water by closing the drain valve. Close all of the faucets.
In most cases, if the water would not drain, it is because mineral deposits have accumulated in the drain hole. Remove the hose and use a length of wire to clean the deposits from the hose. As soon as the water starts to flow, turn off the valve and reconnect the hose to the faucet.
How To Turn Off a Hot Water Heater
It is the purpose of this article to explain how to turn off a gas hot water heater. Water tank interior parts may be damaged if the required procedures are not followed. There are just a few steps to complete, and they are all straightforward. Gas water heaters and electric water heaters are the most common types of water heaters found in most households. Propane would be included in the definition of gas for the purposes of this debate. If you have an electric hot water heater, go to the article ‘How to Shut Down an Electric Hot Water Heater’ for specific instructions on how to shut down this type of appliance.
See the section on “troubleshooting gas water heaters” for information on all forms of gas water heater issues.
Identifying Water Heater Types
Are you unsure about which kind you have? There are a few of distinguishing characteristics that make it simple to determine which type you are wearing. Electric water heaters are easy to spot because of their wiring that enters them via their tops (Figure 1). Aside from that, because they do not need any fuel to heat up, electric water heaters do not have any vents. The vent at the top of a gas water heater is a telltale sign that it is working. Your hot water heater’s heat exchanger might be made of metal or plastic, depending on its efficiency level.
How To Identify a Gas Hot Water Heater
The presence of a gas valve and burner assembly at the bottom of the water heater is a telltale indicator that it is a gas water heater. A strong metal gas pip will be fitted to the gas valve to ensure that it operates properly. In the bottom of the unit, there will be a burner assembly, which will be covered by a detachable plate. In order to protect the bottom gas line and thermocouple connector, this plate will protrude from the wall.
After the outer cover plate has been removed, it is generally easy to see a pilot light via a window in most cases. To heat the water, gas water heaters utilize a burner with an open flame to generate heat.
Fume Vent at Top
Natural (or propane) gas hot water heaters heat water by burning the gas that is supplied to them. When fossil fuels are used, they release hazardous gases into the atmosphere. As a result, a gas hot water heater will always include some sort of venting system. The efficiency of the hot water heater determines the sort of vent that should be used. Higher efficiency units will employ a plastic pipe to vent through an exterior wall, rather than through the ceiling. A lower-efficiency unit will be vented through a brick or metal fireplace.
Gas Lines
Of course, it comes to reason that a gas hot water heater would run on natural or propane gas to heat the water it produces. This sort of gas is a low-pressure fuel that necessitates the use of a massive pipe system to transport it. The pipe that will be linked to the burner assembly stated above will be required. When you look at the water heater, you will be able to see this pipe clearly. It will be joined to the gas valve located at the bottom of the unit and will typically be connected on the left side of the unit when facing the water heating unit.
Lack of a Vent
Electric hot water heaters do not have vents, unlike gas or propane models. The use of vents on gas water heaters is essential in order to eliminate hazardous gases. Electric water heaters do not emit any fumes, and as a result, they do not require a vent. Vents can be constructed of metal or plastic, and they are often installed in a chimney, a metal vent pipe, or through an outside wall. With an electric water heater, the only thing that can be found on its top is its water inlets and a power line.
Upper and Lower Access Panels
Electric hot water heaters heat water by circulating it via heating elements. The majority of them are composed of two elements: an upper and a lower component. The heating components are hidden behind access panels on the side of the water heater for easy access. It is possible that the panels will be spaced differently, but typically one will be towards the bottom of the water heater and the other can be anywhere from the middle of it to the top. The panels may be a different color from the rest of the water heater housing or the same color as the rest of the water heater housing.
A gas water heater will simply have a gas valve and a burner access panel at the bottom of the water tank, and will not have any other features.
No Gas Burner
Heating elements are used to heat the water in electric hot water heaters. The majority of them are made up of two elements: an upper and a lower. Located on the side of the water heater, behind access panels, are the elements. Each of these panels will have a different spacing, but normally one will be at or near the bottom of the water heater, and one will be anywhere from the middle of it to near the top of it. A distinct color from the rest of the water heater housing is possible, as is the same color as the rest.
A pair of screws usually holds them in place, and they are rather simple to take out. A gas water heater will simply have a gas valve and a burner access panel at the bottom of the water tank, and will not have any other components. Upper-level access panels will not be provided on the structure.
No Gas Lines
In the case of an electric water heater, there will be no gas line connected to the water heater. Gas lines are massive, heavy pipes with a lot of large fittings attached to them. The term “black pipe” refers to the fact that it is black and greasy when it is constructed. The gas line links to the gas valve, which is located at the bottom of the water tank. On an electric water heater, you will not notice any of these features.
Shutting Down and Gas Hot Water Heater
When it comes to correctly turning down a gas hot water heater, there are four stages to follow: (1) To operate on water pipes or drain the tank, turn the gas valve control to the pilot position. (2) If you need to perform any additional repair on the hot water heater, turn the gas off entirely. (3) Reduce the temperature of the water within the tank. (4) Turn off the water supply to the hot water tank from the cold. (5) Turn on a hot water faucet somewhere in the home (ideally on the second floor).
Step One – Setting a Gas Valve On ‘Pilot’
The gas valve for your water heater is placed near the bottom of your water heater, right above the burner chamber, and is easily accessible. There is a gas valve on the top of the tank that has several settings. Off, Pilot, and On are the three most important settings to remember. When the dial is set to ‘Pilot,’ the gas to the burner will be turned off without the pilot light being extinguished. The convenience of not having to re-light the pilot when you are finished may be a significant time savings.
It is appropriate for use while draining the tank or doing maintenance on the water pipes in the home.
Step Two – Turning the Gas OFF
Working on your gas hot water heater should always be done in the safest manner possible. Leaking gas has the potential to explode and is extremely dangerous. To begin, turn the dial on the gas valve to the ‘OFF’ position. By just turning off the gas valve, you are not truly shutting off the gas. Next to the water heater is a ball valve that is part of the gas piping system. The handle of this valve should be perpendicular to the pipe once it has been rotated 90 degrees. After shutting off the gas valve fully, the gas is no longer present, making it safe to operate around the water heater.
Step Three – Cool Down the Water
This is a critical first step. Water that comes right out of a gas hot water tank can be extremely hot and scald or burn you if you are not careful. Run a substantial volume of hot water through one of the fixtures until the water is only slightly warm to the touch. Do not combine it with cold water; instead, run it just with hot water. It is expected that the cold water flowing into the tank will dilute the hot water and lower its temperature. To work on the water heater, it is best to wait until the water has completely cooled down.
Step Four – Shut Off the Cold Water Supply
It is not necessary to turn off the water if you have not switched off the gas supply to your gas hot water heater.
If the water within the water heater continues to heat after the water has been turned off, the heater will build up an excessive amount of pressure. You can switch off the cold water supply if you are certain that the water has been turned off.
Step Five – Open a Hot Water Faucet
The opening of a faucet will avoid the development of an air lock in the water heater. Any attempts to drain the water tank will be unsuccessful if a faucet is not left open to allow for the passage of air. It should be okay to begin working on your hot water tank at this point.
Step Five – Draining a Hot Water Tank
The majority of repairs on a gas hot water tank may be completed without the need to drain the tank. There are, however, a few notable outliers that must be taken into consideration. The removal or replacement of a gas valve will need the draining of the tank. This section of the tank is threaded directly into the bottom section of the tank. Another task that necessitates the use of an empty tank is the removal of silt. A effective preventative maintenance routine includes flushing away water heater sediment on a yearly or semi-annual basis.
Where To Next?
After you have done your repairs, you will need to restore the functionality of your water heater. Instructions may be found in the page titled “Starting a Hot Water Heater.” The procedures are identical to those for turning off a water heater; the only difference is that you must follow them in the proper order.