What to Do When Your Water Heater Starts Leaking

Discovering water pooling around your water heater can make your stomach sink. You might worry about water damage, unexpected costs, and whether it’s safe to stay inside your home. It’s okay to feel uneasy in the moment, but knowing what steps to take can ease your concerns and prevent the issue from escalating.

We’ll break down what to do when your water heater starts leaking and when to call a professional for help.

Is a Leaking Water Heater an Emergency?

The severity of a water heater leak depends on its cause and location. So, is a leaking water heater an emergency? It can be, especially if the leak is substantial or poses a safety risk. Here are some situations that warrant your attention:

The Leak Comes From the Tank

If water is leaking directly from the water heater tank, this usually means the tank is cracked. This is a serious issue since cracks can’t be repaired, and a replacement is your only option.

There’s Water Near Electrical Parts

For electric water heaters, water around electrical components can pose a safety hazard. If water gets near the circuit breaker or wiring, turn off the power and call a professional immediately.

The Pressure Relief Valve Is Constantly Dripping

The temperature pressure relief valve is designed as a safety feature to release excess pressure inside the tank. However, constant leaking may signal excessive pressure or a faulty valve, both of which require immediate attention.

Water Damage Is Spreading

If the leak has caused water damage to nearby walls, floors, or belongings, it’s crucial to act quickly. Allowing water to sit can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage.

You Notice Water is Leaking Continuously

A steady stream of water or constant dripping indicates a more significant failure, such as a broken drain valve, heating element, or a compromised pipe.

Steps to Take When Your Water Heater Starts Leaking

If you’ve noticed a water heater leak, don’t panic. Follow these steps to manage the situation and reduce potential damage:

1. Turn Off the Power or Gas Supply

Are you unsure what to do when your water heater starts leaking? Start by turning off the power. For an electric water heater, switch off the power at your home’s electrical panel or breaker box. If you have a gas water heater, locate the gas valve and turn it to the “off” position. This step is crucial for safety while you investigate the problem.

2. Shut Off the Water Supply

Find the cold water inlet pipe leading to your water heater. There should be a shut-off valve nearby. Turn it clockwise to stop the water flow. If you can’t locate this valve, you may need to shut off your home’s main water supply temporarily.

3. Drain the Water Heater

To minimize water damage, attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the hot water tank. Place the other end in a safe location, like a floor drain or outside. Open the valve to drain the remaining water from the tank. This will also help relieve pressure inside.

4. Identify the Source of the Leak

Once the water is drained, inspect the heater closely. Common sources of a water heater leak include:

• Loose Pipe Connections: Check the two pipes (cold water inlet and hot water outlet) for drips or loose connections.
• Pressure Relief Valve: A leaking pressure relief valve may indicate too much pressure inside the tank.
• Drain Valve: A faulty valve could be the culprit if water is leaking from the bottom.
• Anode Rod: Corrosion on this rod can cause leaks, though it’s typically replaceable.
• Cracked Tank: Unfortunately, a cracked tank means the water heater will need to be replaced.

5. Clean Up Any Water

Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up standing water. Leaving water unattended can lead to mold and permanent water damage. Be sure to dry the affected area completely to prevent further issues. If water has seeped into walls or flooring, consider calling a professional to assess any hidden damage. Prompt action can save you from costly repairs down the line.

Common Causes of a Leaking Water Heater

Understanding why your water heater might leak can help you prevent issues in the future. Here are some of the most common reasons:

Sediment Buildup

Over time, sediment collects at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and potentially damaging the heating element. Regular maintenance, including flushing the tank, can help avoid this problem.

Faulty Valves or Connections

A leaky water heater often stems from a faulty valve or loose pipe connections. These issues can sometimes be fixed without replacing the entire water heater.

Cracked Tank

If the water heater tank itself is cracked, it’s time for a replacement. Cracks typically result from aging, corrosion, or excessive pressure inside the tank.

Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve Issues

The temperature pressure relief valve is a safety feature designed to release water when the pressure gets too high. If it’s leaking, it might be due to excess pressure or a faulty valve.

When Should You Call a Professional Plumber?

While minor issues like tightening a loose connection might be manageable, other problems require the expertise of a professional plumber. You should schedule service if you notice:

• Water is still leaking after you’ve turned off the valves.
• The gas line or gas valve is involved.
• There’s visible damage to the heater tank.
• The leak is coming from hard-to-reach components.

At All Seasons Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Heating Inc., we provide top-notch water heater services in Coachella Valley, CA, and the surrounding areas. Whether you need repairs or a full replacement, our experienced team can handle it.

The Bottom Line

Knowing what to do when your water heater starts leaking can help you act quickly and prevent bigger problems. While some minor issues might be easy to fix, a leaking water heater is an emergency if there’s a cracked tank, water near electrical parts, or continuous dripping from the pressure relief valve.

Turning off the power, shutting off the water supply, and identifying the source of the leak are important steps to take. For more serious issues, calling a professional is the best way to resolve the problem safely.

Call Us for Water Heater Repair in Coachella Valley, CA!

If your water heater is leaking, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. At All Seasons, we’re here to help you with reliable, professional service. We offer water heater repair in Coachella Valley and deliver solutions tailored to your needs.

Contact us today to schedule your service! Let’s make your home safe, dry, and comfortable again.