How to Safely Turn Off Your Water Heater
Your comprehensive guide to safely managing your home's water heating system.
Electric Water Heater Shutdown Guide
Step 1: Turn Off Power at the Breaker
Locate your home's main electrical panel. Find the breaker labeled for your water heater (usually a double-pole breaker). Flip it to the 'OFF' position. This cuts all electrical power to the unit. Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm power is off.
⚠️ WARNING: Always confirm power is off before proceeding. Electrical shock can be fatal.
Step 2: Turn Off Cold Water Supply
Locate the cold water inlet pipe at the top of your water heater. There should be a shut-off valve on this pipe. Turn the handle clockwise until it is completely closed. This stops new cold water from entering the tank.
Step 3: Open the Pressure Relief Valve
Locate the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve, usually found on the top or side of the tank. It typically has a lever. Flip the lever so it is sticking straight out or up. This will release pressure from the tank. **Wait a few hours or run a hot water faucet to cool down the water before opening this valve.**
⚠️ CAUTION: Scalding hot water may be released. Exercise extreme caution.
Step 4: Drain the Water Heater (If Necessary)
If you need to drain the tank for maintenance or repair, connect a garden hose to the drain valve located near the bottom of the water heater. Route the other end of the hose to a safe drainage area (e.g., floor drain, outside). Open the drain valve and allow the water to empty. Opening a hot water faucet in your home can help air enter the tank and speed up draining.
Gas Water Heater Shutdown Guide
Step 1: Turn Off Gas Supply
Locate the gas shut-off valve on the gas supply line leading to your water heater. It's usually a red or yellow handle. Turn the handle so it is perpendicular to the gas pipe, indicating the gas is off. Also, turn the thermostat knob on the water heater to the 'OFF' position, which will extinguish the pilot light.
⚠️ WARNING: Gas leaks are extremely dangerous. If you smell gas, leave immediately, call your gas company, and do not operate any electrical switches.
Step 2: Turn Off Cold Water Supply
Similar to electric heaters, locate the cold water inlet pipe at the top of your gas water heater and close the shut-off valve by turning it clockwise.
Step 3: Open the Pressure Relief Valve
Locate the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve, usually found on the top or side of the tank. It typically has a lever. Flip the lever so it is sticking straight out or up. This will release pressure from the tank. **Wait a few hours or run a hot water faucet to cool down the water before opening this valve.**
⚠️ CAUTION: Scalding hot water may be released. Exercise extreme caution.
Step 4: Drain the Water Heater (If Necessary)
If you need to drain the tank for maintenance or repair, connect a garden hose to the drain valve located near the bottom of the water heater. Route the other end of the hose to a safe drainage area (e.g., floor drain, outside). Open the drain valve and allow the water to empty. Opening a hot water faucet in your home can help air enter the tank and speed up draining.
Important Safety Tips
🔴 Always wear appropriate safety gear (gloves, eye protection) when working near appliances.
🔴 For gas heaters, ensure proper ventilation and be alert for any gas odors. If detected, evacuate immediately and call your gas company.
🔴 Always confirm power/gas is off before touching the unit. Use a voltage tester for electric units.
🔴 Hot water can cause severe burns. Wait for water to cool or drain cautiously when opening valves.
🔵 If unsure about any step, consult a qualified professional. Your safety is paramount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Turning off your water heater is necessary for maintenance (like draining sediment), repairs, extended vacations (to save energy and prevent issues), or in emergencies such as a leak or strange noises (like rumbling or hissing) to prevent further damage or safety hazards.
After turning off the water heater, the hot water in the tank will gradually cool. This can take several hours, depending on the tank size, insulation, and ambient temperature. Running a hot water faucet can help speed up the cooling process.
While possible, frequent cycling can put extra stress on components, potentially causing damage and malfunctions, and may not be energy efficient. It's generally recommended to only turn it off when necessary for safety, maintenance, or extended periods of absence (e.g., long vacations).
Yes, it is generally safe to turn off the cold water supply valve to the water heater. However, exercise caution when opening the pressure relief valve or the drain valve, as hot water may be released.
Completion Checklist
Review the steps below to ensure you have safely turned off your water heater. Items will be marked complete as you progress through the guides.
- ◻️ Electric Power to Heater is OFF
- ◻️ Cold Water Supply to Electric Heater is OFF
- ◻️ Electric Heater Pressure Relief Valve is OPEN
- ◻️ Electric Heater Drained (if applicable)
- ◻️ Gas Supply to Heater is OFF
- ◻️ Cold Water Supply to Gas Heater is OFF
- ◻️ Gas Heater Pressure Relief Valve is OPEN
- ◻️ Gas Heater Drained (if applicable)
- ◻️ All Safety Tips Reviewed