How to Handle a Broken Water Heater in Your Home

Water heaters typically last around 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance, but they can begin showing signs of wear before they fail completely. Leaks around the connections or tank can lead to damage to flooring and drywall and may indicate an upcoming failure.

Rust and sediment buildup inside the tank can also reduce efficiency and contribute to breakdowns. In some cases, an improperly sized unit can be overworked and fail unexpectedly.

If your water heater breaks, here are some important steps to take next.

What to do When Your Water Heater Breaks

• Turn off the Water – Turn off the water valve on your water heater. If it won’t turn off, shut off your home’s main water supply. If your water heater has burst, locate the cold water supply pipe leading from your home’s main water line into the top of the water heater. Turn off the cold water supply line by turning the valve clockwise. This stops the flow of water filling the hot water heater.
• Turn off the Power – An electric or gas heating element can pose new hazards if left running. It can stay hot long after water is out of the tank which wastes energy and could also start a fire. Locate and flip the breaker for your hot water heater on your breaker box. If your hot water heater is gas-powered, turn off the gas line leading into it and leave the house until the natural gas smell is gone.
• Drain the Water Heater – Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of your water heater’s tank. Run the other end of the hose to a lower area where you can drain dirty water without risking more damage. Open the drain valve and flip the relief valve handle to prevent a vacuum from forming while the water drains.
• Rinse with Cold Water – After the water heater drains, open the water supply for a few minutes to flush any remaining sediment out of the water heater.
• File an Insurance Claim if Possible – Take photos of any structural elements or furniture that were damaged to help your insurance company determine the cost to repair or replace the items. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove water from the area around the tank. Run a dehumidifier or floor fans to help prevent the growth of mold. Contact your insurance agent and be sure not to throw away your hot water tank as the insurance adjuster will need to see it to determine the cause of the burst and whether the company will pay for damages. When the insurance adjuster visits your home to assess the damage, show the photos you took and be ready to answer any questions he or she might have.

If you have any problems with your plumbing, call Bailey Brothers immediately night or day at 405-896-9988 for 24/7 service.