# Can I Just Unplug a Water Heater? A Complete Guide

- Canonical: https://33rdsquare.com/can-i-just-unplug-a-water-heater-a-complete-guide/
- Published: 2023-10-01
- Author: Lillie Gabler
- Categories: [Tips](https://33rdsquare.com/category/home/tips/)

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Unplugging your water heater seems like a simple way to shut it off or disconnect it. But there are some very important safety considerations to keep in mind first. Water heaters, especially gas models, contain complex components and systems that require proper shutdown procedures to avoid potentially dangerous hazards.

This comprehensive 2500+ word guide will walk you step-by-step through everything you need to know about safely unplugging any type of water heater in your home.

## A Closer Look at Different Water Heater Types

There are three main types of water heaters used in homes today:

### Electric Water Heaters

- Use electricity to power heating elements that are submerged in an insulated tank of water.
- Shutting off the power at the breaker and unplugging from the outlet is required for disconnection.
- **47%** of households in the U.S. use electric water heaters.

### Gas Water Heaters

- Rely on natural gas or propane to heat the water in an insulated tank.
- Have additional gas line components that must be correctly shut off before unplugging.
- Account for **40%** of residential water heaters in the U.S.

### Tankless Water Heaters

- Heat water instantly using gas burners or electric coils as water flows through the unit.
- Require turning off both gas and water lines for disconnection.
- Gaining popularity with **13%** of homes now using tankless models.

But here‘s the important thing – **all water heater types** contain critical safety mechanisms that are designed to prevent leaks, explosions, fires, or other catastrophic failures.

**Improperly unplugging your water heater can compromise or disable these important safety features.**

So let‘s take a detailed look at how to correctly unplug and disconnect **each kind of water heater**…

## Shutting Off an Electric Water Heater Before Unplugging

Electric water heaters are the most straightforward to unplug, but there‘s still a specific sequence of steps you must follow:

1. Turn off the power to the water heater at the main breaker panel. Locate the correct circuit and switch it to the "Off" position.
2. Shut off the cold and hot water lines connected to the water heater. These are typically located at the top and bottom. Turn the shut-off valves clockwise to close.
3. Open a hot water faucet in the house to release any residual pressure and drain the tank completely. Leave tap open.
4. Disconnect the water lines from the tank with a pipe wrench and cap them off with appropriate fittings.
5. Unplug the electrical power cord from the outlet. **Never unplug before turning off the breaker!** This presents a serious shock hazard.
6. Your electric water heater is now fully disconnected.

Turning off power at the breaker first is a crucial safety step with an electric unit. Unplugging the power cord before this can cause the breaker to suddenly trip from the surge. This risks damaged wiring inside the wall which would require repair by an electrician.

## How to Safely Disconnect a Gas Water Heater

Gas-fueled water heaters have additional considerations because of the pressurized combustible gas used to heat the water:

1. Locate the main gas supply shut-off valve at the base of the water heater. Turn it clockwise to the "Off" position to shut off gas supply.
2. Open a hot water tap to release residual water pressure. Leave tap open.
3. Disconnect the main gas supply line using the proper sized pipe wrench. Make sure to cap the open gas line.
4. Loosen and disconnect the exhaust flue pipe or venting. Some residual gas may be present so ventilate the area.
5. Allow ample time (an hour or more) for the water heater components to cool before touching any electrical connections. The unit can remain dangerously hot long after gas supply is cut off. Exercise caution.
6. Once cool, disconnect and cap the water lines to and from the tank.
7. Unplug any electrical components like igniters or control panels only after gas is confirmed shut off and sufficient cooling time has passed.

**Never unplug anything on a gas water heater before thoroughly shutting off the gas supply valve.** This risks deadly gas leaks or explosion. Also allow time for residual heat and fumes to dissipate before disconnecting electrical components. Rushing into unplugging risks serious burns.

## How to Safely Unplug a Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters work differently than storage tank heaters but still require care when unplugging:

**Electric Tankless:**

1. Shut off the breaker supplying power to the tankless unit at the main panel.
2. Turn the cold water shut-off valve clockwise to the closed position. Tankless heaters do not store water.
3. Open any hot water taps in the house to relieve pressure. Leave them open.
4. Disconnect and cap the hot and cold water lines to the tankless heater. A pipe wrench is usually required.
5. Unplug the electrical connections – power cord and wiring to heating elements. With no water or power, the unit is disconnected.

**Gas Tankless:**

1. Locate the gas supply valve either directly under or close to the unit. Rotate it clockwise to shut off gas.
2. As with an electric model, shut off the water supply and open taps to drain lines and relieve pressure.
3. Disconnect the gas supply line and water lines and cap all open connections.
4. Unplug any electrical components only after shutting off gas and allowing time for heat dissipation. Igniters can remain extremely hot to the touch even after gas is off. Exercise caution.

Tankless water heaters contain many of the same hazards as storage models. Improper unplugging of gas or electric lines can lead to lethal leaks or dangerous exhaust venting into living spaces. Closely follow the manufacturer‘s instructions for your specific make and model when disconnecting.

## Step-by-Step: Completely Removing a Water Heater

When it‘s time to fully remove and replace a water heater, follow this complete sequence of steps:

1. Turn off the power at the breaker panel and/or shut off the gas supply valve located on the unit.
2. Shut off the water supply lines – both hot and cold lines connected to the water heater.
3. Open nearby hot water faucets to allow pressure release and fully drain the tank, if applicable. Leave faucets open.
4. Using the proper sized pipe wrench, disconnect all water lines to and from the heater. Cap any open pipes with appropriate fittings.
5. For gas heaters, disconnect the gas supply line and exhaust venting. Cap all gas line openings. Allow ample time for residual heat dissipation before the next steps.
6. Once cooled, unplug all electrical connections including power cords and wiring harnesses. Take photos to aid reassembly later.
7. Remove mounting screws or fasteners securing the water heater. Carefully extract unit using appliance dolly or furniture sliders. Watch for any remaining connected pipes or wires.
8. With the heater removed, cap off any remaining open pipes, lines, or wires in the access area.
9. Thoroughly inspect area for leaks, debris, or damage before reinstalling a replacement unit. Repair issues first.

Attempting to disconnect or remove a water heater without methodically following these precautions can easily lead to dangerous gas leaks, flooded basins, electrical shorts, or even deadly carbon monoxide poisoning in extreme cases. Don‘t take risky shortcuts – exercise patience and caution.

## Can I Safely Leave a Water Heater Unplugged for Extended Periods?

While it may seem convenient just to unplug your water heater and leave it that way for weeks or months during a remodel or when vacationing, there are a few detrimental effects to be aware of:

- **Rust and corrosion** – When left full of stagnant water for long periods without heating cycles, corrosion and rust damage are much more likely to occur inside the tank. This can shorten its lifespan or require expensive repairs down the road.
- **Sediment buildup** – Lack of heating cycles also allows mineral deposits to accumulate at an accelerated rate, eventually leading to clogs in plumbing lines or failure of heating elements.
- **Mechanical failures** – The moving parts inside the water heater can seize up when left idle for too long. Fuel systems with complex components like gas valves and igniters can degrade over time without use.
- **Freezing damage** – Any residual water left in the system can freeze during cold weather, potentially rupturing pipes, fittings, or even the tank itself.

If an extended shutdown is unavoidable, consider these steps to mitigate the risks:

- Completely drain the tank and add RV antifreeze to pipes to prevent freezing damage, especially in cold climates.
- Turn the temperature setting to its lowest point instead of unplugging. This maintains minimal heating cycles to combat sediment and rust.
- Upon reconnection after a long inactive period, thoroughly flush the tank and lines to purge any sediment or contaminants.

According to most manufacturers‘ recommendations, water heaters should not sit unplugged or inactive for more than **2-4 weeks maximum** to avoid these deterioration risks. Always consult the user manual for your specific model for proper maintenance guidelines.

## Is it Wise to Professionally Service Water Heaters?

With the many potential hazards involved, most experts recommend hiring professional plumbers or contractors to handle any work involving disconnecting or unplugging a water heater unless you are highly experienced with plumbing repairs.

Licensed service pros have specialized training to ensure:

- All residual water pressure is properly relieved from plumbing lines before disconnecting. This prevents messy and costly water spills.
- Gas supply valves are completely sealed off to eliminate dangerous leakage into living spaces.
- Electrical connections are managed properly and safely disconnected. Outlets are capped to avoid sparks or exposure.
- The tank is fully drained and all pipes correctly sealed when removing old units or installing replacements.
- New heaters are properly calibrated and adjusted for optimal performance and safety.

Improper unplugging or removal by inexperienced DIYers often leads to flooded homes, electrical fires, or deadly gas accumulation. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, **358 deaths** involving water heaters were reported between 2016-2018, many caused by improper installation or maintenance. Don‘t take risks with your home‘s plumbing systems.

## Quick Tips for Reconnecting Your Water Heater

When your project or vacation is over and it‘s time to use the water heater again, keep these quick tips in mind for smooth reconnection:

- Double check that all water, gas, and electrical lines are clear of obstructions and properly capped before reassembly. Replace any damaged fittings.
- Have an electrician inspect electrical systems including power cords and internal wiring harnesses. Replace any cables that appear heat damaged or corroded. Use dielectric grease.
- Carefully follow the water heater manufacturer instructions in reverse sequence when reconnecting gas, water, and electric lines. Missing steps risks leaks or malfunctions.
- After water and gas are reconnected, thoroughly inspect all fittings and pipes for potential leaks and immediately repair any found.
- Once powered up again, completely flush the tank to purge any sediments or contaminants that accumulated while unplugged.
- For units that sat unused for over 6 months, a professional tune-up is recommended to ensure no damage or failures result upon restarting.

Don‘t take shortcuts attempting to quickly reconnect your water heater yourself. The extra diligence is worth it to avoid leaks or failures leading to extensive property damage or dangerous hazards. Call a pro anytime issues are encountered.

## Troubleshooting Common Water Heater Problems

If you encounter problems like leaks, rusty water, or no hot water after reconnecting your recently unplugged water heater, here are some tips to try:

**Leaking from fittings** – Tighten any loose pipe fittings using correct sized wrench. Look for cracks in water lines or tank fittings and replace any damaged parts. Use pipe thread sealant.

**No hot water** – Check that electrical breakers, gas valves, and water lines are fully opened. Press reset buttons on electric controls and relight pilot lights if applicable. Inspect heating elements or igniters for damage and call for replacement if needed.

**Rusty/discolored water** – Sediment buildup while unplugged is likely the culprit. Fully drain and flush the tank. Replace the anode rod if corroded. The inlet water filter may also need replacing.

**Loud rumbling or banging noises** – Mineral sediment accumulation on the bottom of the tank can cause this. Drain and flush the tank thoroughly to purge. Filter replacement may also help.

**High energy bills** – A deteriorated insulating wrap around the tank could be resulting in heat loss. Replace damaged insulation or consider an insulating exterior water heater blanket. Also lower the temperature setting.

For any major issues, don‘t hesitate to call in an experienced plumber or water heater technician. Safety and proper function are nothing to gamble with.

## Routine Maintenance is Key to Avoid Problems

Consistently performing simple preventative maintenance tasks on your water heater can go a long way toward avoiding unplugging-related complications:

### Drain and Flush Tank

- Helps prevent mineral sediment buildup in bottom of tank
- Should be done **every 6 months**
- Process takes about an hour

### Inspect/Replace Anode Rod

- Helps protect against corrosion and rust
- Check **yearly** and replace if over 50% worn away

### Check Pipe Fittings

- Tighten any loose fittings to prevent leaks
- Inspect closely for cracks and replace damaged pieces
- Should be done anytime lines are disconnected

### Check Insulation Wrap

- Ensure insulation wrap is intact and securely attached
- Replace if deteriorated or water damaged
- Prevents costly heat loss from the tank

### Inspect Gas Components (Gas heaters)

- Clean burners, pilot lights, and airflow systems
- Check gas lines for leaks annually
- Service helps maintain efficiency

Regular maintenance provides substantial dividends in water heater performance, longevity, and safety. Don‘t ignore the manufacturer‘s recommended upkeep procedures.

## Let‘s Review the Key Steps

To summarize, here is a quick checklist of the essential steps when disconnecting your water heater:

Shut off gas valves and/or electrical breakers
 ✅ Turn off water supply lines
 ✅ Open faucets to release pressure
 ✅ Drain tank completely
 ✅ Disconnect and cap water lines
 ✅ Disconnect gas and electric lines
 ✅ Allow time for components to cool
 ✅ Check for leaks before reconnecting

Exercising caution and patience is crucial when dealing with the gas, water, and electrical systems involved in properly unplugging a water heater. If ever in doubt, don‘t hesitate to call in a professional service technician. Safety for your home and family should be the top priority.

I hope this guide gives you confidence in being able to properly disconnect your water heater when needed. And remember – when in doubt, reach out to a licensed pro!

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Source: [Can I Just Unplug a Water Heater? A Complete Guide](https://33rdsquare.com/can-i-just-unplug-a-water-heater-a-complete-guide/)