Floodwater can cause serious water heater damage in a short time. During a hurricane or major storm, rising water can reach the heater and damage parts that may not be easy to see. This is especially true for gas and electric water heaters, which have electrical, gas, and mechanical parts that can become unsafe after contact with floodwater. If your water heater was exposed to flooding, do not turn it on until it has been checked by a professional.
Look for Signs of Floodwater
Start by checking the area around your water heater. Look for mud, dirt, water stains, or a water line on the tank or nearby walls. Even if the water has gone down, these signs can show that floodwater reached the unit. Check the floor around the heater as well. A heater that was partly underwater may have damage inside that cannot be seen from the outside.
Check the Tank for Damage
Look closely at the water heater tank for dents, cracks, rust, or other changes. Floodwater can move objects around and cause physical damage to the tank and its connections. Mud and debris can also collect around the base of the unit. If the tank has shifted from its original position, do not try to move it yourself. Our New Orleans plumbing team can inspect the unit and determine what should happen next.
Check the Connections and Pipes
Floodwater can affect the water connections around your heater. Look for broken fittings, loose pipes, damaged valves, or signs of leaks. Check both the cold water pipe entering the heater and the hot water pipe leaving it. If you see leaking water, keep away from the unit and do not turn the system on. Our team can check the connections and make repairs when needed.
Be Careful With Electric Water Heaters
An electric water heater can be dangerous if floodwater reaches its electrical parts. Water can damage wiring, controls, and other components inside the unit. Do not touch electrical connections or try to turn the heater back on after it has been flooded. Even when the outside of the heater looks normal, hidden electrical damage may still be present. Have the unit inspected by a qualified professional before using it again.
Check Gas Water Heaters for Damage
Gas water heaters have their own safety concerns after a flood. Water can damage the gas control valve, burner, and other parts of the unit. Floodwater can also leave mud or debris inside areas that need to stay clean for the heater to work safely. If you smell gas, leave the area and contact the proper emergency service. Do not try to repair a gas water heater yourself.
Watch for Strange Sounds
If your water heater was not flooded but was exposed to heavy moisture, pay attention to any new sounds after it is cleared for use. Popping, banging, hissing, or other unusual noises can point to a water heater problem. These sounds can also come from sediment or damaged parts. If the sound started after a storm, our plumbers can inspect the heating system and find the cause.
Check Your Hot Water
A change in your hot water supply can also be a warning sign. You may notice that your water does not get as hot as it did before the storm or that hot water runs out much faster. These problems can happen when parts inside the water heater have been damaged. Do not keep using a heater that is not working normally after flood exposure. A professional inspection can help determine if the unit can be repaired or needs to be replaced.
Do Not Turn a Flooded Heater Back On
If floodwater reached your water heater, do not simply wait for the unit to dry and turn it back on. Water can damage parts inside the heater even after the outside appears dry. Trying to restart a damaged unit can create safety risks and may cause more damage. Keep the unit off and have it inspected by a professional. Our New Orleans plumber can help determine the safest next step for your home.
When Should You Replace Your Water Heater?
In some cases, a flooded water heater may have too much damage to repair safely. The age of the unit, the type of heater, how high the water rose, and which parts were exposed can all affect the decision. A professional inspection can help you understand your options. If replacement is needed, our team can help you choose and install a new water heater that fits your home’s needs.
Get Your Water Heater Checked After a Flood
Floodwater can damage parts of a water heater that are difficult to see. Mud, rust, leaks, damaged controls, and changes in hot water can all be signs of a problem. If your heater was exposed to floodwater, keep it off and have it checked before using it again. Contact Blair Plumbing and our New Orleans plumber can inspect your water heater and help you determine the safest way to restore hot water to your home.