A water heater problem is an emergency when you smell gas, the tank is leaking, the relief valve is spraying, or scalding water comes from the taps. These situations can cause injury or water damage and should be handled right away.
Gas Smell Near the Heater
Leave the home right away. Do not use light switches, phones, or flames inside. Once you are outside, call 911 or your gas utility. A plumber can help after the gas company says it is safe to go back in.
Leaks, Spraying Valves, and Scalding Water
A tank that is leaking can get worse quickly and flood the area around it. Shut off the cold-water valve and turn off the gas or power to the heater. Move stored items away from the water.
The temperature and pressure relief valve opens when the tank is too hot or under too much pressure. If it is spraying, keep clear, turn off the heat source if you can do it safely, and call a plumber.
Water that comes out scalding could mean the thermostat is stuck. This is a burn risk, especially for young children and older adults. Avoid using hot water until the heater is checked.
Problems That Can Wait a Little
Lukewarm water, a heater that runs out quickly, or rumbling sounds mean the heater needs service. They are not usually emergencies. Schedule a visit before the problem gets worse.
If Your Building Has Central Hot Water
In many Bronx apartment buildings, hot water comes from a building system. Under city rules, landlords must provide hot water all year, so report building-wide outages to your landlord or super.
If your own water heater is leaking or unsafe, JPR Plumbing can help. See how we deal with water heater problems for the urgent cases. For warning signs that can wait a few days, such as a noisy tank or lukewarm water, booking the visit for later in the week is usually fine. Call (833) 603-1840.