Step 7 · Restore Power or Gas

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.

After confirming the tank is full (steady water flow from the hot water tap), you can safely restore power. Go to the faucet and turn it off. For an electric heater, return to the circuit breaker panel and switch the water heater breaker back to the 'ON' position. For a gas heater, turn the control knob back to the 'PILOT' position, follow the manufacturer's instructions printed on the heater to relight the pilot light, and then turn the knob to the 'ON' position. The water heater will now begin to heat the new tank of water. The popping noises should be gone.