What to Do If Your Water Heater Is Leaking

A leaking water heater is one of those problems that can go from a small drip to a flooded garage in a hurry. A typical tank holds many gallons of water, and if the tank itself fails, all of it ends up on your floor. Acting quickly and safely in the first few minutes can be the difference between a minor mop-up and a major cleanup. Here is what to do and how to figure out where the leak is coming from.

Take These Steps First

Before you diagnose anything, make the area safe and stop the water.

1. Shut off the water. Turn off the cold-water supply valve at the top of the heater. If you cannot reach it, use your home's main shutoff.
2. Cut the power or gas. For an electric unit, switch off its breaker. For a gas unit, turn the gas control to the off position. Never handle electrical components while standing in water.
3. Stay clear of standing water near power. If water has reached outlets or the unit's electrical connections, keep out and cut power at the breaker instead of wading in.
4. Drain if needed. If the leak is significant, you can attach a hose to the drain valve to empty the tank into a safe location.

Find the Source

Once things are safe, look for where the water is actually coming from. Common culprits include:

• A loose or faulty drain valve at the bottom of the tank, which may just need tightening or replacing.
• The temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve, which can release water if pressure is too high or if the valve itself has failed.
• Loose supply connections at the top, where fittings can work loose over time.
• A corroded or cracked tank. If the tank body itself is leaking, the unit has usually reached the end of its life and needs replacement.

Know When to Call a Pro

Some fixes, like snugging a fitting, are within reach for a handy homeowner. But a leaking T&P valve, a gas connection, or a tank that is rusting through are jobs for a licensed professional. And no matter what caused the leak, any water that soaked into drywall, baseboards, or the slab needs to be dried thoroughly to prevent mold and rot.

If a water heater has flooded your garage, closet, or home, Tri Tech serves Burbank and Greater LA 24/7. Our 24-hour line is ready to help you clean up the water and dry out the space before it turns into a bigger problem.