Emergency Water Heater Service in Wilmington, NC
A failed tank keeps filling from your water line until it’s shut off. Do these steps now, then call.
Do this first
- Shut the cold water valve on the line into the top of the tank
- Can’t reach it? Shut off the main water to the house
- Electric: turn off the water heater breaker
- Gas: turn the control knob to Off or Pilot
- Stay away from outlets and cords if there’s standing water
- Get belongings off the floor
After a hurricane
Hurricane Florence came ashore near Wrightsville Beach in 2018 and dropped more than 23 inches of rain on Wilmington. Two years earlier, Hurricane Matthew pushed the Cape Fear River at downtown to its highest crest on record. If floodwater reached your water heater, don’t turn it back on. Water inside the gas control, burner, or electrical parts can make it unsafe. Have it inspected, and expect a replacement in most cases.
Smell gas? Leave the house and call your gas company or 911 from outside.
Renters and vacation rentals
If you rent, call your landlord or property manager first. They’re usually responsible for the heater and may already have a plumber. Shut off the water and power or gas to the heater while you wait.
Staying in a vacation rental? Call the rental company or owner. They usually have a plumber on call.
Need hot water back?
Call for a free estimate. No obligation, and you’ll talk to someone local.
Emergency Water Heater Service: common questions
My water heater was underwater during the storm. Can I dry it out?
No. Floodwater damages controls, burners, and insulation in ways you can’t see. Leave it off and have it checked. Most flooded heaters are replaced.
Water is coming out of the pipe on the side of my tank. Is that an emergency?
That’s the relief valve. If it’s gushing or won’t stop, shut the heater down and call. It can mean the water is too hot, pressure is too high, or the valve has failed. Never cap that pipe.
Can I call at night or on weekends?
Yes. You’ll reach a local plumber who can say what has to happen right away and what can wait for morning.
Serving Wilmington and nearby towns
Emergency Water Heater Service is available throughout Wilmington and the surrounding area. Find your town for local details.