Emergency Water Heater Service in Greenville, NC
A burst tank keeps refilling from your water line until someone turns it off. If water is spreading right now, shut the heater down with the steps below, then call.
Stop the water first
- Close the cold water valve on the pipe going into the top of the tank
- If you can’t find or turn that valve, shut off the main water to the house
- For an electric heater, switch off its breaker
- For a gas or propane heater, turn the control knob to Off or Pilot
- Keep clear of outlets and cords if you’re standing in water
- Move rugs, boxes, and furniture out of the way
Gas smell or a flooded heater
If you smell gas, get everyone outside and call Greenville Utilities, your propane supplier, or 911 from outside. Don’t use light switches or phones inside.
Floodwater is a separate danger. The Tar River reached its record crest at Greenville during Hurricane Floyd in 1999 and rose to its third-highest level during Hurricane Matthew in 2016, and Contentnea Creek flooded parts of Grifton both times. Any heater that has sat in floodwater, gas or electric, should stay off until a plumber checks it. Usually it needs to be replaced.
Is it really an emergency?
A slow drip from a valve, or a cold tank in an otherwise comfortable household, can usually wait for a daytime appointment.
- Water coming from the tank body that you can’t stop
- Water heading toward drywall, flooring, or the electrical panel
- A relief valve that discharges hot water again and again
- No hot water with infants, older adults, or someone recovering from illness in the home
Need hot water back?
Call for a free estimate. No obligation, and you’ll talk to someone local.
Emergency Water Heater Service: common questions
Should I turn my water heater back on after a storm?
Not if water reached it. Floodwater can damage gas controls, burners, and electrical parts in ways you can’t see. Have it inspected first, and expect a replacement in most cases.
Can I keep using a leaking water heater?
If the tank itself is leaking, no. Shut it off and plan to replace it. A leak from a fitting or valve is often repairable but should be fixed soon.
Do you take after-hours calls?
Call any time. You’ll be connected with a local plumber who can tell you what needs to happen tonight and what can wait until morning.
Serving Greenville and nearby towns
Emergency Water Heater Service is available throughout Greenville and the surrounding area. Find your town for local details.