Step 3 · Turn Off Power and Water Supply

This is the step people usually slow down on. Go finger-tight first, then a quarter turn. No rush — replay the clip whenever it helps.

Before draining the tank, you must shut off its power source for safety. For an electric water heater, go to your home's main electrical panel and turn off the corresponding circuit breaker. It is often a double-pole breaker and should be clearly labeled. For a gas water heater, locate the gas control knob on the unit and turn it to the 'PILOT' or 'OFF' position. Next, turn off the cold water supply valve that you just inspected in the previous step.