Leaking Heater? Find Out Why and How to Fix It

If you’ve seen water pooling around your heater, you’ve probably wondered what’s wrong. A leak can mean anything from a tiny loose screw to a big tank problem. The good news is many leaks are easy to spot and fix yourself, while others need a professional. Below we’ll walk through the most common reasons a heater leaks and give you simple steps to tackle each one.

Quick Checks You Can Do Right Now

First, turn off the power or gas to the heater for safety. Next, look at these spots:

1. Pressure‑relief valve (PRV) – This small valve sits on top of the tank. If it’s dripping, it might be releasing pressure because the tank is overheating or the valve is faulty. Gently lift the lever; if water keeps flowing, replace the valve.

2. Drain valve – Often hidden at the bottom, the drain valve can become loose or develop a cracked seal. Tighten the nut with a wrench, but don’t over‑tighten. If the seal looks worn, swap the washer.

3. Inlet and outlet connections – The pipes that bring cold water in and hot water out can loosen over time. Check the nuts on both ends; hand‑tighten any that feel loose and make sure the copper or flex hoses aren’t cracked.

4. Tank corrosion – Look for rust spots on the outside of the tank. Small rust patches can turn into holes, especially on older units. If you see rust spreading, the tank is likely failing.

5. Condensation – Sometimes what looks like a leak is just moisture forming on the heater’s surface. Feel the area; if it’s just damp, it’s probably normal condensation, not a leak.

When to Call a Pro

If you’ve checked the PRV, drain valve, and pipe connections and the heater still drips, it’s time to get help. A professional can:

• Diagnose internal tank damage and replace a broken anode rod.
• Perform a pressure test to see if the tank itself is cracked.
• Replace faulty heating elements that can cause overheating leaks.

Most techs can finish a typical leak repair within a few hours, especially if the problem is a simple valve swap. However, if the tank needs a full replacement, expect a longer job and a higher cost.

While you wait for a pro, keep the area dry to prevent slip hazards. Place a bucket or towels under the leak and turn off the water supply to the heater if you suspect a major issue.

Regular maintenance can stop leaks before they start. Once a year, have a technician check the anode rod, flush the tank to clear sediment, and test the pressure‑relief valve. If you’re comfortable, you can flush the tank yourself: turn off power or gas, shut the water supply, attach a garden hose to the drain valve, and let the water run until it’s clear.

In short, a leaking heater doesn’t have to mean a disaster. Start with the easy checks, tighten loose connections, and replace obvious faulty parts. If the problem is deeper, a qualified repair person will get it sorted safely and quickly. Keep these tips handy, and you’ll enjoy hot water without the dreaded puddles.