Step 2 · Shut Off the Cold Water Supply

Locate the cold water inlet pipe, which is typically on the top right side of the water heater and marked with a blue ring. Find the shut-off valve on this pipe. It will either be a round, wheel-like handle (gate valve) or a lever handle (ball valve). Turn the gate valve handle clockwise until it stops. For a ball valve, turn the lever handle a quarter turn so it is perpendicular to the pipe. This will stop any new water from entering the tank while you drain it.