How to Stop a Water Leak

If you're experiencing an active leak from your water heater, follow these steps to safely shut off the water and minimize damage.

• Locate the shutoff valve for the water heater’s cold water supply. There is typically a lever or knob found on the cold pipe entering your water heater.
• Rotate the shutoff valve handle clockwise to close it. This stops new water from entering the water heater.
• If your water heater doesn’t have a shutoff valve or it’s not working, locate the main water shutoff valve for your home. This is usually found near the water meter, in a basement, utility room, crawl space, or near the foundation where the main water line enters the building.
• Turn the main shutoff valve clockwise to close it (may require multiple turns). This will stop water to your entire house until the leak is addressed.
• Open a hot water valve on any faucet at the lowest level of your home (e.g., basement sink or tub). This helps drain excess water and relieves pressure in the water heater and hot water pipes.
• Contain the leak. Use towels, sheets, buckets, mops, a shop-vac (don't forget to replace the dust filter with a sponge/foam filter), or other methods to prevent further water damage in the area of the leak.
• Replace the failed water heater. Contact us for a fast and affordable water heater replacement or use our Instant Quote Tool to see real pricing online.

Disclaimer: The Water Heater Replacement Company are a licensed Mechanical Contractor and do not provide plumbing servicees beyond water heater replacements. This guide provides general steps for shutting off a water heater leak. Specific steps may vary based on your home's plumbing setup. If you're unsure or uncomfortable performing these actions, please contact us or another licensed professional immediately to avoid further damage or injury.