A leaking water heater is more than just a nuisance—it can lead to water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Whether you’re dealing with a slow drip or a visible puddle near the unit, taking the right steps immediately can help minimize the damage and protect your home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential actions you should take if your water heater is leaking, common causes of leaks, and when it’s time to call a professional.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power Supply
Safety first. Before inspecting your water heater, make sure to turn off its power source.
- For electric water heaters: Locate the circuit breaker in your electrical panel and switch off the breaker connected to your unit.
- For gas water heaters: Turn the gas supply valve to the “off” position. This valve is typically located on the gas line near the bottom of the heater.
Never attempt to inspect or repair a water heater while it’s still powered.
Step 2: Shut Off the Water Supply
To prevent further leakage or flooding, turn off the water supply to your heater.
- Locate the cold water shut-off valve, usually found at the top of the heater.
- Turn the valve clockwise until it stops to shut off the water flow.
If you’re unable to find or operate the valve, you may need to shut off the main water supply to your home.
Step 3: Identify the Source of the Leak
Once the unit is safely powered down and the water supply is off, carefully inspect the water heater to locate the leak. Here are common areas to check:
- Top of the tank: Leaks here may come from loose inlet/outlet connections or a faulty pressure relief valve.
- Bottom of the tank: Water here often indicates internal corrosion or a full tank failure.
- Temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve: If water is dripping from this valve or the discharge pipe, it may be due to high pressure or temperature inside the tank.
- Drain valve: Located near the bottom of the unit, this valve may be loose or faulty.
Step 4: Contain the Leak
Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water around the unit. Place a container under any active drips to prevent further floor damage.
If the leak is significant, it’s wise to contact a professional immediately to assess the situation and prevent extensive water damage.
Step 5: Call a Licensed Water Heater Technician
While some minor leaks (like a loose valve) can be resolved easily, most leaks—especially from the tank itself—require professional service or replacement.
At Quality Water Heater Services, our experienced technicians can quickly identify the cause of your leak, recommend the most effective solution, and perform repairs or replacements as needed. We offer fast, reliable service to protect your home and restore your hot water supply.
Common Causes of Water Heater Leaks
Understanding the cause of the leak can help you avoid future issues. Here are a few of the most frequent culprits:
- Aging tank: Water heaters typically last 8–12 years. Corrosion over time can cause the tank to leak.
- Sediment buildup: Accumulated sediment can crack the tank or clog components.
- High water pressure: Too much pressure can force water out of valves or weak spots.
- Loose fittings: Over time, connections may loosen due to thermal expansion and contraction.
Preventing Future Leaks
Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding water heater leaks and ensuring long-term performance:
- Schedule annual professional inspections
- Flush the tank regularly to remove sediment
- Check the T&P valve periodically
- Monitor the age of your water heater and plan for timely replacement
Need Emergency Help? We’re Just a Call Away.
If your water heater is leaking and you’re unsure what to do, don’t panic—Quality Water Heater Services is here to help. Our team is available for fast service, expert repairs, and honest advice on whether to fix or replace your unit.
📞 Call us today for immediate assistance or to schedule a professional inspection.
🌐 Visit us at https://qualitywaterheaterservice.com/