Discovering water pooling around your water heater can be alarming—but don’t panic. A leaking water heater doesn’t always mean a total system replacement is needed, but it does signal that immediate action is necessary to prevent water damage and restore your home’s hot water supply.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do when your water heater is leaking, the possible causes, and how a professional plumber can help you resolve the issue quickly and safely.
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
The first step when you spot a leak is to stop the flow of water to the heater. This helps minimize damage and gives you time to assess the situation.
- Locate the cold water shut-off valve above the water heater. This is usually a knob or lever.
- Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply.
- If the valve is corroded or stuck, or if the leak is significant, you may need to turn off your home’s main water supply instead.
Step 2: Shut Off the Power
Next, turn off the power to the water heater. This is a critical safety step, especially if you have an electric unit. For electric water heaters, locate the breaker on your electrical panel labeled for the water heater and switch it off.
For gas water heaters, turn the gas control valve to the “off” position. Do not attempt to relight the pilot or tinker with the gas line. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination—so don’t skip this step.
Step 3: Locate the Source of the Leak
Now that it’s safe, you can try to determine where the leak is coming from. Common sources include:
- Cold or hot water inlet/outlet connections: Loose or corroded fittings at the top of the unit can leak over time.
- Drain valve: Found near the bottom of the tank, this valve may be loose or defective.
- Temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve): This safety valve may be discharging water due to high pressure or temperature—or it may be faulty.
- Tank corrosion: If water is leaking from the bottom of the unit or the tank itself is rusting, the inner lining may be failing. This is often a sign that a replacement is needed.
One of our expert plumbers can confirm the source of the leak and recommend the appropriate repair or replacement.
Step 4: Clean Up Water Promptly
Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up standing water. If the leak was significant, set up fans and dehumidifiers to dry the area. Left untreated, water can damage flooring, drywall, and create mold growth in just a day or two.
Step 5: Call a Professional Plumber
Once you’ve taken steps to stop the leak and secure the area, it’s time to call in a professional. Even minor leaks can signal deeper issues with the unit’s components, seals, or structural integrity. A licensed plumber can:
- Replace worn valves or fittings
- Flush sediment buildup
- Test or replace the T&P valve
- Recommend a new water heater if the tank is failing
It’s also a good opportunity to ask about high-efficiency water heaters if yours is older. Upgrading may save you energy and money in the long run.
Contact Performance Plumbing today for plumbing services in St. Louis, MO today!