Water Heater Leaking? Here’s What to Do
Published January 19, 2026 | Updated April 24, 2026
If your water heater is leaking, act fast—the first two steps are the same no matter the cause. Turn off the power (breaker for electric, gas valve for gas) and shut off the cold water supply above the unit. Then figure out where the leak is coming from. Leaks at the top usually mean loose connections, the T&P valve, or the cold inlet—often repairable. Leaks from the bottom often mean tank corrosion or a failing drain valve, and may require replacement. Don’t wait to call a plumber—leaking water heaters can flood quickly and cause serious property damage.
Is It an Emergency?
Need help right now? See our 24/7 emergency water heater service. Call immediately if you notice any of the following:
- Water pooling around the base or dripping continuously
- No hot water anywhere in the house
- A gas smell anywhere near the unit (leave the house and call 911 or the gas company first)
- Visible rust or bulging on the tank
- Water coming from a wall or ceiling connected to the water heater
Serving Lawrenceville, Cumming, Dawsonville, Roswell, and surrounding North Atlanta areas—call 770-273-0877 for fast help. We’re available 24/7 with no overtime charges.
What to Do Right Now
Step 1: Turn off the power
For electric water heaters, flip the breaker labeled “water heater” to OFF. For gas units, turn the gas control knob to OFF or pilot.
Step 2: Shut off the cold water supply
Locate the cold water shutoff valve on the pipe entering the water heater and turn it clockwise. If it won’t turn, shut off your home’s main water supply.
Step 3: Find the source of the leak
Check whether the leak is coming from the top, bottom, a connection, or the tank itself. If possible, take a photo to help with diagnosis.
Step 4: Open a hot water faucet
This relieves pressure in the system and can slow the leak.
Step 5: Call for help
Most leaks can be diagnosed quickly — schedule same-day leak repair. If the tank has failed, replacement may be needed.
Common Causes of Water Heater Leaks
Most water heater leaks come from a small number of common failure points. Identifying where the leak is coming from is the key to determining whether it can be repaired or if replacement is the better option.
Loose pipe or connection
Connections at the top of the tank can loosen over time due to expansion and contraction. These are usually straightforward repairs.
Faulty temperature and pressure relief valve
The T&P valve protects the tank from excessive pressure. If it’s dripping or discharging water, it may need replacement or indicate a larger pressure issue.
Drain valve failure
The drain valve at the bottom of the tank is a common failure point, especially in older units. This is often repairable.
Tank corrosion
If water is leaking from the tank itself, the internal lining has failed. This is not repairable and requires replacement.
Water Heater Leaking from the Bottom
A water heater leaking from the bottom is more serious — and the source matters. There are three main causes, and only two are repairable:
1. Failing drain valve (repairable). The drain valve at the base of the tank is plastic on most residential units and fails frequently after 8–10 years. If water is dripping from the valve itself, it can be replaced in under an hour.
2. Sediment buildup causing tank overheating (repairable if caught early). Years of sediment accumulation insulate the bottom of the tank, causing it to overheat and stress the metal. A sediment flush may help — but if corrosion has already started, replacement is the only permanent fix.
3. Tank corrosion (not repairable). If water is pooling from underneath the tank — not from a connection, not from the drain valve — the tank itself has corroded through. Once that happens, the tank cannot be repaired and must be replaced. Signs: rust on the tank exterior, rusty hot water at your faucets, the unit is 8+ years old.
How to tell which one you have: dry the area around the base, lay paper towels on the floor, and check in 15 minutes. If the paper is wet near the drain valve, it’s the valve. If it’s wet underneath or from the side seams, the tank has failed.
If you’re not sure, call us at 770-273-0877 — we can usually diagnose the source in 15 minutes on-site.
Water Heater Leaking from the Top
Leaks from the top of the tank are usually repairable. The most common causes:
- Loose pipe connections — hot and cold inlet fittings loosen over time from thermal expansion. Simple tightening or resealing fixes most.
- Faulty T&P (temperature & pressure relief) valve — if the discharge tube is dripping, the valve may have failed or your tank pressure is too high.
- Anode rod port — the anode rod seal can degrade after 5–8 years.
- Cold water inlet valve — the shutoff valve itself can leak around its base.
These are usually straightforward repairs — typically $250–$450 parts and labor, but these prices can vary depending on accessibility, age of the plumbing system, code compliance and affect on other plumbing components. For example, it may not be possible to complete a repair where the age of the water heater itself is significant.
Can You Fix a Leaking Water Heater Yourself?
Some minor issues can be handled safely if you’re comfortable:
- Tightening loose fittings
- Replacing a drain valve
- Replacing a T&P valve
Avoid attempting:
- Any work on gas systems or venting
- Working with electricity
- Repairs involving the tank itself
- Full system draining or removal
In many cases, the risk of a mistake outweighs the cost savings. For anything beyond simple fittings, schedule a professional water heater repair. Remember, your plumbing water pipes have pressurized water: any improper connection or fitting can cause a significant leak in seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my water heater is leaking from the bottom?
Turn off the power and water supply immediately. If the leak is from the tank, replacement is usually required. If it’s from the drain valve, it may be repairable.
Why is my water heater leaking from the bottom?
Common causes include a failing drain valve, sediment buildup, or internal tank corrosion. Only a proper inspection can confirm the cause.
What causes a water heater to leak?
Leaks can come from loose connections, failing valves, sediment buildup, excessive pressure, or age-related corrosion.
Can a water heater leak from the bottom without the tank failing?
Yes. A drain valve or heating element gasket can leak without the tank itself being damaged.
How long does a water heater last?
Most tank water heaters last between 8 and 12 years depending on usage and maintenance.
Should I repair or replace a leaking water heater?
For newer units with isolated issues you may want to schedule a repair. Consider getting a replacement quote for older systems or when the tank itself is leaking.
Serving North Atlanta — Fast Water Heater Help
Aaron Services has been helping homeowners across North Atlanta since 1978. If you have questions about your water heater or need service fast, we offer complete water heater services, from tank repairs to tankless installs. We focus on clear recommendations, upfront pricing, and doing the job the right way.
If your water heater is leaking, don’t wait—call 770-273-0877 for same-day service.
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