Leaking Water Heater: Causes, Fixes, & Prevention

If cold water is pooling around your heater, you know the panic that follows. A leaking water heater isn’t just a mess – it can waste energy, damage floors, and even cause rust inside the tank. The good news? Most leaks have a simple reason and an even simpler fix. In the next few minutes you’ll see why the leak started, what you can safely do yourself, and when to call a pro.

Why Your Heater Is Leaking

Water heaters have three main places where water can escape: the tank itself, the connections, and the pressure‑relief valve. A crack or rust spot in the tank means the whole thing will need replacing – there’s no patch that will last. Leaking at the top usually points to a loose or corroded pipe joint, while a leak at the bottom often means the drain valve hasn’t been tightened properly.

Another sneaky culprit is the temperature‑pressure (T&P) relief valve. If the water gets too hot or pressure builds up, the valve pops open to protect the tank. A stuck or faulty valve will drip continuously, even when the heater is off. Lastly, sediment build‑up can create tiny holes in the tank’s lining, especially after years of hard water.

Simple DIY Fixes

Before you grab a wrench, turn the power off (or shut the gas) and close the cold‑water supply valve. Let the tank cool for a few minutes – hot water can cause burns.

1. Tighten loose connections. Use an adjustable wrench to snug any fittings you see dripping. If the leak persists, wrap the thread with plumber’s tape and re‑tighten.

2. Replace a bad drain valve. Drain valves are cheap and easy to swap. Unscrew the old one, clean the threads, apply new tape, and screw in the fresh valve.

3. Test the T&P valve. Lift the small lever on the valve; water should flow out and then stop when you release. If it keeps running, replace the valve – a $20 kit does the job.

4. Flush the tank. Sediment is a silent leak maker. Connect a garden hose to the drain valve, open the cold‑water supply, and let water run until it’s clear. This simple flush can extend the life of a tank that’s otherwise in good shape.

If after these steps you still see water, the tank itself is likely compromised. In that case, it’s time to call a qualified technician. Trying to patch a cracked tank can lead to bigger damage and higher repair bills.

Regular maintenance can catch problems early. Check your heater once a year for rust, corrosion, or loose fittings. Keep the area around the unit clear so you can spot drips right away. And don’t forget to set the thermostat to 120 °F – higher temps raise pressure and make the T&P valve work harder.

By spotting the source, tightening a few bolts, or swapping a cheap valve, you can stop most leaks before they cause real trouble. When in doubt, our team at Taunton Appliance Repair Solutions is just a call away – we’ll fix the leak fast and get your hot water back on track.