A broken water heater is more than just an inconvenience—it can mean cold showers, unexpected expenses, and in worst cases, water damage to your home. Whether you’re facing a sudden breakdown or slow signs of failure, knowing what to do when your water heater breaks can save you from stress and costly repairs.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential steps, offer basic DIY troubleshooting tips, and explain when it’s best to call in professionals—especially for residents in humid, water-damage-prone areas like Los Angeles.
1. Turn Off the Power Supply Immediately
Safety comes first. If your water heater breaks, your first move should be to shut off its power source.
For electric water heaters: Locate the circuit breaker and switch off the dedicated breaker for the water heater.
For gas water heaters: Turn the gas supply valve to the off position.
This helps prevent electrical hazards or gas leaks, and it stops the unit from continuing to try to heat water it can’t hold.
2. Shut Off the Water Supply
Locate the cold water shut-off valve—usually above the water heater—and turn it clockwise to stop water from flowing into the tank. This step is critical if your tank is leaking, as it helps minimize water damage.
3. Check for Leaks or Visible Damage
Inspect around the base of the unit and along the walls for signs of leaking, corrosion, or pooled water. If your unit is leaking significantly, you may be dealing with:
A ruptured tank
Faulty valves
Damaged connections or pipes
Quick tip: Use towels or a wet-dry vacuum to contain any minor leaks until help arrives.
4. Drain the Tank (If Safe to Do So)
If your water heater is leaking or has stopped working entirely, draining the tank helps avoid further damage.
Steps to drain the water heater:
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
Run the hose to a nearby drain or outside.
Open the valve and let the water flow out.
Note: Do this only if the water is cool or the power is off. Hot water can cause burns.
5. Try Basic DIY Troubleshooting
Here are a few common issues homeowners can check:
No hot water: Check the thermostat or pilot light.
Strange noises: Could be sediment buildup—flushing the tank may help.
Low hot water pressure: Inspect for buildup in pipes or the unit’s filter.
However, if you’re not confident or the problem persists, it’s time to bring in the pros.
6. Call a Water Heater Repair Expert in Los Angeles
For residents in Los Angeles, hard water, aging infrastructure, and environmental factors can complicate water heater repairs. If you suspect internal damage, extensive leaking, or electrical problems—don’t risk a DIY disaster.
Contact the professionals at Advanced Restoration & Construction. We specialize in emergency water damage response and water heater-related issues for homeowners across Los Angeles. Our team ensures the issue is diagnosed quickly and fixed efficiently to prevent long-term damage.
7. When to Repair vs. Replace
If your water heater is older than 10 years and showing signs of rust, efficiency loss, or constant repairs—it might be more cost-effective to replace it.
Repair if:
Minor issue (thermostat or valve)
Less than 8 years old
No signs of rust or tank corrosion
Replace if:
Tank is leaking
Older than 10–12 years
Repeated problems or poor energy efficiency
8. Prevent Future Breakdowns
Proactive maintenance extends the lifespan of your unit:
Flush the tank once a year
Check the anode rod every 2–3 years
Install a water softener if your home has hard water
Schedule annual professional inspections
Final Thoughts
A broken water heater doesn’t have to ruin your day—knowing what to do when your water heater breaks can prevent serious damage and ensure a faster recovery. From safety steps to professional solutions, acting quickly makes all the difference.
Faqs
Yes. Even small leaks can cause water damage and mold if not addressed quickly.
You can use cold water, but avoid using hot taps until the system is inspected or repaired.
It varies based on the issue, but minor repairs range from $150–$400. Full replacements start around $1,000.
Yes, it’s a great idea—especially for longer trips. It reduces risk of leaks and saves energy.
Absolutely. Moisture from a leak can lead to mold growth in as little as 24–48 hours. Call professionals immediately.