1. Turn off gas or electricity.

Gas Water Heater: Twist the dial on the top of the thermostat from the “on” to the “off” position. This will turn off the gas at the water heater. If you ever smell gas – exit the home and contact the gas company immediately.

Electric Water Heater: Find your breaker box and flip the breaker for your water heater. Or, if your water heater has a disconnect switch close to the water heater, simply turn off the switch to turn off power to the water heater.

2. Turn off water supply

• Find the cold side water pipe connected to the water heater and follow the water pipe back to the wall. You should see a water shut off valve.
• Gate Valve: If you have an old style turn faucet handle – Twist the handle clockwise until it stops. This should turn of the water
• Ball Valve: If you have a newer lever style ball valve pull or push the handle a quarter turn – this should turn off the water.
  

3. Drain the water heater

You should drain the leaking water heater to reduce the risk of water damage. Connect a garden hose to the bottom drain valve on the water heater, then run the other end of the hose to a lower location where hot or rusty water will not cause damage (hot water can damage grass and plants). Open the hot side faucet in the sink closest to the water heater as this will release the vacuum seal and let the water drain out of the water heater. Allow 10-30 minutes for the water heater to drain.

* Most manufacturers suggest draining the water heater at least once a year to help prolong the life of the water heater.

If you still are having difficulty turning off your water heater, you can always call the plumbing professionals at Brockmire Plumbing Services at 858-679-0585 to safely turn off your water heater.