Few things are more frustrating than waking up to no hot water or discovering a puddle under your water heater. When your water heater breaks, it can quickly become an emergency. Whether you need a quick fix or a full replacement, knowing what to do in these situations can save you time, money, and stress. Here’s a guide to emergency water heater repair and how to handle the situation effectively.
1. Turn Off the Power or Gas Supply
The first step when your water heater breaks is to turn off the power or gas supply. For electric water heaters, locate the circuit breaker and flip the switch to “off.” If you have a gas water heater, turn off the gas valve located near the tank. This will prevent any potential electrical or gas hazards and make the repair process safer.
2. Shut Off the Water Supply
Next, you’ll want to stop the flow of water to prevent flooding or further water damage. Locate the cold-water shutoff valve on top of your water heater and turn it clockwise to close it. If you can’t find it or it’s not working, you can turn off the main water supply to your home as a temporary solution.
Stopping the water flow will give you time to assess the situation without worrying about additional damage.
3. Assess the Damage
Before calling a professional, try to assess what’s going on. Is the water heater leaking? Is it making strange noises? Do you still have some hot water, or is it completely cold? These details will help your technician understand the issue and whether you need water heater repair or a replacement.
Common problems include:
- Leaking water heater tanks
- No hot water at all
- Inconsistent water temperatures
- Strange banging or popping noises
If the issue is small, it might be fixed with simple water heater maintenance or a repair. However, larger issues like a cracked tank may require a full water heater replacement.
4. Contact a Professional for Emergency Water Heater Repair
Once you’ve secured your home and assessed the situation, it’s time to contact a professional for emergency water heater repair. At St. George Water Heaters, we provide fast and reliable service to get your hot water flowing again. Whether your water heater needs a minor repair or a complete replacement, our team can help you determine the best solution for your home.
5. Know When It’s Time for a Replacement
In some cases, a water heater repair may not be enough, especially if your system is old or severely damaged. Most water heaters last between 8 to 12 years, so if yours is nearing the end of its lifespan and breaking down frequently, it may be time for a water heater replacement.
A new, energy-efficient water heater can save you money on utility bills and provide more reliable hot water. Tankless water heaters are a popular choice for St. George homeowners due to their energy efficiency and space-saving design.
6. Prevent Future Issues with Regular Maintenance
Once your water heater is repaired or replaced, it’s important to stay on top of regular maintenance to prevent future emergencies. Flushing the tank, checking the anode rod, and scheduling annual inspections can help extend the life of your water heater and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
By taking these preventive measures, you can avoid the stress and inconvenience of emergency repairs.
Contact St. George Water Heaters Today
If you’re dealing with a broken water heater, don’t wait. Contact St. George Water Heaters for expert emergency water heater repair and replacement services. We’ll help you assess the problem, make the necessary repairs, or install a new, efficient water heater to keep your home comfortable year-round.