How to Turn Off Electric Hot Water Systems
Hot water systems, which may be powered by electricity or gas, are a necessary appliance in any space requiring a steady supply of heated water. Electric systems needing repair or maintenance must be turned off prior to working on the equipment.
Items needed:
- Ladder
- Flashlight
Instructions:
- Locate the electrical outlet where the hot water system's cord is plugged. Gently pull on the cord to remove it from the outlet. Realize that some electrical hot water heaters run directly into the home's electrical supply and do not have conventional plugs.
- Find the house's electrical breaker. If the hot water heater does not have a plug, you must disconnect the appliance's power at the system's source. The electrical breaker will be located in the basement or on the outside of the house. In some cases, a ladder may be necessary in order to access the breaker. Each breaker should be labeled with a different appliance's name or home area. The breaker box may be positioned behind a small door, with the inside area of the door listing the breaker labels. Flip the breaker marked with the hot water system label, turning the breaker to the off position.
- Flip the main breaker switch if the hot water heater's breaker is broken or not labeled. Understand that turning the main breaker to the off position will disconnect all power from the house.
- Consider turning off the water supply. If you are turning off the hot water heater's electricity in order to repair or perform routine maintenance, the water supply may need to be disconnected as well. Turn the water supply valve in a clockwise fashion.