A tank water heater holds 40 to 80 gallons, and a failed tank or fitting can keep pulling in water from the supply line until you shut it off. In Florida many heaters sit in garages, closets or utility rooms right next to drywall and flooring, so acting fast matters.
1. Stay safe
- Water from the tank can be scalding. Keep hands away from the leak and the drain valve until it cools.
- If water is near outlets or the unit is electric and standing in water, switch off its breaker only if you can reach the panel while standing somewhere dry.
- For a gas heater, turn the gas control to OFF. If you smell gas, leave the house and call the gas company or 911 from outside.
2. Stop the water
Close the cold-water shutoff valve on the pipe going into the top of the heater. If you cannot find it or it will not turn, close the main water valve for the house.
3. Contain and document
- Photograph the heater, the label (it shows the age) and every wet area before cleanup.
- Move boxes, rugs and furniture out of the water. Use towels and a wet vac on hard floors.
- Check the other side of shared walls and under nearby cabinets: water travels under baseboards.
4. Dry it out
Run fans and AC or a dehumidifier. Drywall that wicked water up from the floor and carpet pad that stayed wet usually need removal to prevent mold. The EPA notes mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours.
When to call for help
Call if water spread beyond the closet or garage, soaked drywall or flooring, or sat for more than a day. If you want a professional to take over, call (813) 574-3203 to be connected with a local water damage restoration company. The call is free; any work is agreed directly with the company.
Local flood risks, storm history and county resources: Tampa, Orlando, Miami, or find your city.
General information, not legal or insurance advice. Check your policy and official sources.
Frequently asked questions
Is a burst water heater covered by homeowners insurance?
The resulting water damage from a sudden leak is often covered, but the heater itself usually is not, especially if it failed from age or wear. Coverage depends on your policy, so check the water damage section and report the claim promptly.
Can I drain the water heater myself?
Often yes, once power or gas is off and the water has cooled: attach a hose to the drain valve and run it outside or to a floor drain. If the valve or tank is damaged, leave it closed and let a plumber handle it.
More guides
- The first 24 hours after water damage
- How a Florida water damage insurance claim works
- What affects the cost of water damage restoration
- How to choose a water damage restoration company
- Does homeowners insurance cover water damage in Florida?
- Flood vs. water damage claims in Florida (NFIP explained)
- Mold after a hurricane: a Florida homeowner's guide
- Ceiling leaking after rain: what to do
- Washing machine flooded the floor: what to do
- AC drain line leaking: stop the water damage
- Slab leak signs in Florida homes
- Burst pipe: what to do in the first hour
- Sewage backup: cleanup safety and what to do
- Roof leak during a hurricane or tropical storm