How to Manage a Water Heater Leak in Fayetteville

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO mitigates water FAST so that you can get back to normal after a water event.

One of the most problematic sources of water damage in Fayetteville is a failed water heater. A failed water heater causes significant damage after it fails. This could present a few safety hazards to consider before mitigation. After you've stopped the water, it's time to clean up.

Checking Your Water Heater

Before inspecting your water heater for damage or leaks, be sure that you protect yourself by taking the following safety precautions:

• When approaching a gas water heater that you suspect has failed, make sure you do not smell any gas. Since water heaters are frequently located in unventilated and confined spaces, an accumulation of gas from a small leak could build up rapidly.
• Turn off the water heater and its water supply.
• Do not touch the tank itself and be mindful of the pilot light. Even a leaking water heater tank can be very hot.
• Inspect the tank’s drain valve, which is usually located near the bottom of the tank. The drain valve should be closed and screwed on securely. If there is a leak coming from the drain valve, it might need to be replaced; this is one of the most common causes of leaks in water heaters.

Cleaning Up

Once you've stopped the flow of water, you can begin to clean up:

• Make sure electronics and appliances in the wet area are unplugged.
• Transfer rugs and any other movable furniture and items to a dry area.
• Dry the floor with towels, a mop, or a shop-vac.
• Set up fans and dehumidifiers to being circulating air and removing excess moisture.

Be sure that you consider all of the safety factors and protect yourself when beginning any cleanup procedure involving a broken water heater. Investigating, repairing and mitigating the damage caused by a leaking water heater should include basic safety precautions and thorough cleaning and drying that SERVPRO would be well-equipped to manage.

SERVPRO of Fayetteville/Springdale should be your first choice for any residential or commercial restoration needs. Our team of professionals is trained to assess the damage and potential threats, extract and contain the affected area, dry, and restore your property to preloss condition. 

SERVPRO of Fayetteville/Springdale is available 24/7 by calling 479-318-6774.

For more about SERVPRO of Fayetteville/Springdale, click here.