Step 1 · Shut Off Power or Gas Supply

Begin by turning off the power to your water heater. For an electric model, locate your home's circuit breaker panel and switch off the breaker dedicated to the water heater. It is often a double-pole breaker and should be clearly labeled. For a gas water heater, find the control knob on the gas valve assembly on the front of the tank and turn it from the 'ON' or 'PILOT' position to 'OFF'. This is the most critical safety step to prevent damage to the appliance.