A broken water heater is a major inconvenience, especially when you’re left without any hot water at home. The first step you take after realizing your water heater is not working will most likely be to schedule an appointment for a repairman to come out and fix it. However, the wait time for a repairman can be frustrating, as it may take a few hours or even days for them to finally arrive. In this post, we’ll share some helpful tips on what to do while you’re waiting for your water heater repairman.
Take a Shower at a Friend’s House or a Gym
If you’re in need of a hot shower, and your water heater isn’t working, consider taking a shower at a friend’s house or gym. It’s always good to have a backup plan, and if you’re going to be waiting for a repairman, finding a temporary solution to your hot water needs is a top priority.
If you don’t have access to a friend’s house or gym, there are still ways to keep yourself clean while waiting for your water heater to be fixed. You can use wet wipes or dry shampoo to freshen up, take a dip in a nearby pool or lake, or even use your stove to heat up some water for a bucket bath. It may not be as comfortable as a hot shower, but it’s better than feeling dirty and uncomfortable while waiting for your repairman.
Gather Materials and Tools That Your Repairman May Require
While you’re waiting for your repairman, gather all the necessary items and tools they might need when they arrive. This includes the owner’s manual of the water heater, any warranty documents, a flashlight, and other things they might require for water heater installation and repair work. This can save time, and allows the repairman to get to work quicker.
In addition to gathering necessary materials, you can also prepare other things for your repairman to make their job easier. For example, you can clear out the area around the water heater and make sure there is enough space for them to work. You can also shut off the power supply or gas line to the water heater if needed. By doing these small tasks, you are helping the repairman and potentially speeding up the repair process. This will also show them that you are proactive and responsible, which can lead to a smoother repair experience.
Perform a Visual Inspection on the Water Heater
While you’re waiting, take some time to inspect your water heater. Check for leaks, rust, blockages, or any other issue that might have caused the water heater to fail. By doing this yourself, you’ll have a better understanding of what needs to be fixed and information that may help the repairman.
When performing a visual inspection on your water heater, there are a few key things to look for. First, check for any visible leaks or puddles of water around the unit. This could indicate a problem with the tank or pipes and should be addressed immediately. Next, inspect the exterior of the water heater for any signs of rust or corrosion. These can weaken the unit and cause it to malfunction. Additionally, check for any blockages in the pipes or vents that could be preventing proper water flow. By identifying these issues beforehand, you can inform the repairman and potentially speed up the repair process.
Work on Other Household Projects
If you’ve been putting off other home repairs or small projects, now is the time to tackle them. This is a great way to stay productive while also accomplishing some of the things on your to-do list. And by the time you’re finished, your water heater repairman may have already arrived.
Some small household projects that you can work on while waiting for your water heater repairman include fixing a leaky faucet, organizing your closet or pantry, deep cleaning your oven or refrigerator, or even painting a room. These are tasks that may have been pushed to the side due to a lack of time, but now is the perfect opportunity to get them done. Not only will it keep you busy while waiting, but it will also make your home a more comfortable and functional space.
Find Alternative Hobbies That Don’t Involve Water
If you’re going to be without hot water for some time, you could find some alternative activities to occupy your time. This could involve reading a book, starting a new TV show or movie, cooking, or spending time with your family.
It’s understandable to feel frustrated when your water heater is not working and you’re left without hot water. However, it’s important to try and remain patient while waiting for a repairman. To avoid getting frustrated, try to keep yourself occupied with the tips mentioned above. Also, remember that the repairman may be dealing with multiple appointments and delays, so it’s important to be understanding and empathetic towards their schedule. By finding alternative activities to keep yourself busy and being patient with the repair process, you can make the waiting time more bearable. And once your water heater is fixed, you’ll appreciate the hot water even more.
Having a broken water heater is an inconvenience that can be unbearable. But waiting for a repairman doesn’t have to be frustrating or boring. Use this time to complete other household projects, take a shower elsewhere, gather materials for the repairman, or engage in something that doesn’t involve water. Keep in mind that these tips are just some ideas to help you occupy your time while you wait for a repairman to arrive, but they won’t fix your water heater. When the repairman does arrive, make sure to ask any questions you have and find out what you can do to avoid any similar occurrences in the future.