How To Safely Shut Off a Leaking Water Heater

A leaking water heater needs to be shut down fast and safely. Follow these steps for gas and electric units.

A leaking water heater needs to be shut down quickly and safely.

Cut the energy first: switch off the breaker for an electric unit, or turn the gas control valve to off. Then close the cold-water supply valve at the top of the tank.

If it's actively leaking, drain it with a hose from the bottom valve — but let the water cool first. Then call a pro; a leaking tank almost always means replacement.

None of this replaces a licensed professional. When you want a real pro on the job, PlumbDispatch24 connects you with an independent, locally licensed plumber 24/7 — free to you, and we never quote prices. The local pro handles diagnosis and the estimate directly.