Emergency Water Heater Problems? Here’s What to Do Before You Call a Pro in Columbus
Imagine it’s a chilly morning in Columbus. You step into the shower and—bam!—nothing but ice-cold water hits you. Or maybe you walk into your basement and find a puddle under the water heater. When your hot water vanishes or your system springs a leak, it’s not just an inconvenience—it’s an emergency.
But before you panic, there are a few quick steps you can take to protect your home and possibly save yourself time and money.
Don’t wait—if you’re dealing with a hot water emergency, call Sears Heating & Cooling now at 614-475-1800 or request service online!
What Counts as a Water Heater Emergency?
Not every issue is an emergency—but some absolutely are. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to act fast:
Total Loss of Hot Water
-
No hot water at all from any tap
-
Water turning cold within seconds
-
Heating element or gas burner may have failed
Active Leaks or Flooding
-
Water pooling under or around the unit
-
Moisture damage to flooring or walls
-
Could be a burst tank, cracked pipe, or failed valve
Loud Banging or Popping Noises
-
Sediment buildup overheating inside the tank
-
Pressure buildup that may lead to failure
-
Risk of tank rupture if ignored
Smell of Gas or Electrical Burning
-
Possible gas leak near pilot light or connections
-
Burning odor from overheating elements or wiring
-
Serious safety issue—shut it down and call immediately
What to Do Right Away Before Help Arrives
Taking these immediate steps can help prevent further damage and make your repair call smoother:
Shut Off the Power or Gas
-
For electric models, turn off the breaker to the water heater.
-
For gas models, turn the thermostat dial to “off” or shut off the gas supply valve.
Turn Off the Water Supply
-
Locate the cold water shut-off valve above the tank and turn it clockwise.
-
This stops water flow and prevents flooding while you wait for service.
Drain the Tank If It’s Leaking
-
If safe to do so, attach a hose to the drain valve near the bottom of the tank and direct it to a floor drain or outside.
-
Only attempt this if water is not scalding and you are confident in doing so.
Document the Problem
-
Take photos or notes of any visible damage, leaks, or error messages on digital displays.
-
This helps technicians diagnose the issue faster once they arrive.
What Not to Do During a Water Heater Emergency
In stressful moments, it’s easy to make quick decisions that can backfire. Avoid the following:
❌ Don’t keep running the system “just to see if it gets better”
❌ Don’t attempt major repairs unless you’re a licensed technician
❌ Don’t ignore a small leak—it rarely stays small
❌ Don’t delay if you smell gas—evacuate and call for emergency help
When to Repair vs. Replace Your Water Heater
Sometimes a quick repair is all you need. Other times, a full replacement is the smarter move. We’ll help you decide based on:
- The age of your system (10+ years often signals time to replace)
- The cost of repair vs. new installation
- Repeat issues that signal long-term failure
- Energy efficiency of your current unit vs. a modern upgrade
Facing a water heater emergency?
Call 614-475-1800 or schedule your appointment online. Sears Heating & Cooling is here to restore your hot water—and your peace of mind.
