If your water heater starts leaking, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent extensive damage to your home. Here’s a more detailed step-by-step guide:
1. Turn Off the Power or Gas Supply
For electric water heaters, immediately switch off the power at the breaker box. If you have a gas-powered water heater, turn off the gas valve. This will help prevent electrical hazards or gas-related issues.
2. Shut Off the Water Supply
Locate the cold water supply valve connected to your water heater (typically found near the top) and turn it off to stop the flow of water into the tank. This will prevent the tank from continuing to fill and leaking further.
3. Assess the Leak
Try to determine where the leak is coming from. If it’s from a valve or pipe fitting, you may be able to tighten the connections. However, if the leak is coming from the tank itself, it often means the tank has developed a crack or corrosion, and repair is unlikely.
4. Drain the Tank (If Necessary)
If the leak is significant, you may want to drain the water heater to avoid further flooding. Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, direct the other end to a drain or outside, and open the valve. Turn on a hot water faucet to help the tank drain faster.
5. Inspect for Visible Damage
Check for any visible cracks, rust, or corrosion on the tank. If the tank itself is leaking due to wear and tear or internal corrosion, it will likely need to be replaced.
6. Call a Professional
At this point, it’s time to contact a licensed plumber or water heater technician. A professional can assess the situation and recommend whether the water heater can be repaired or needs to be replaced.