Having hot water in your home is a necessity that doesn’t show its full value until it’s taken from you. What if you, YES YOU, knew a little bit more about how your water heater and the surrounding components worked? It might just save you money and time in a nasty situation!
Where is my main shut-off valve?
As a homeowner, it is important to know where your water heater’s main shut-off valve is located. These valves are typically going to be one of two types…
- Gate valves look like a knob, similar to what you would find on a spigot
- Ball valves are a lever that typically has a colored rubber handle cover
Is my water heater’s main shutoff valve functional?
In the case of an emergency, it is not only important to know where your water shutoff valve is located, but it needs to be functional. To test this, shut the valve off to see if water still flows through the home. Some older gate valves end up letting water through, which is not desirable in an emergency situation.
What do I do if my water heater is leaking?
The first step is always to locate your main gate valve or ball valve and turn it to the off position. Make sure you remember this step!
What do I do if my water heater is leaking from the temperature/pressure relief valve at the top of my water heater?
Well, turn off the main water shut-off valve, and call Diamond Heating & AirTemp Alaska to get a professional out there to repair the leak. In the meantime, get a container, such as a bucket or a bowl, underneath the leak to minimize water damage.
What do I do if my water heater is leaking from the burner section?
You guessed it! Turn off the main water shut-off valve. On domestic “tank style” water heaters, the burner is on the bottom. There is usually a sight glass to see through to inspect a leak. Unfortunately, this is typically not repairable, and your water heater will most likely need to be replaced…. Don’t worry, we have your back! Our team not only services water heaters, but we install them as well!
What do I do if I have a leak at the main shut-off valve?
This type of leak is going to require a plumber for repair. So, hop on that smartphone of yours, and check out the reviews for plumbers in your area.
Before reading this blog, your water heater probably looked like a big scary machine, but with this knowledge, you now can show your water heater who is boss!