Water Heater Leaking? Here’s What It Means and What to Do
A leaking water heater is most often caused by a failed T&P valve, a loose drain valve, or corroded inlet/outlet fittings — those are repairable. But leaking from the bottom of the tank usually means the tank itself has rusted through, which can’t be fixed and needs replacement. Shut off the water and power/gas, then call (443) 247-4113.
What to do right now
- Shut off the water — close the cold-water valve on top of the tank (clockwise), or your home’s main.
- Turn off power or gas — breaker off (electric) or gas dial to “Off.”
- Drain if it’s bad — connect a hose to the drain valve to reduce flooding.
- Call us — (443) 247-4113. A fast leak can cause major water damage. See emergency service.
Why is my water heater leaking?
Leaking from the top:
– Loose or corroded cold/hot water connections
– Failed T&P (temperature/pressure relief) valve or its discharge tube
– Condensation (often harmless, more on gas units)
Leaking from the bottom:
– Drain valve loose or worn — repairable
– T&P valve discharging down the side
– Corroded/rusted-through tank — NOT repairable; the tank must be replaced
If water is pooling under the tank with no obvious valve source, it’s usually the tank, and replacement is the fix.
Can a leaking water heater be repaired?
Sometimes. Valve and fitting leaks are repairable. A leaking tank is not — once the steel tank corrodes through, no patch lasts, and it will only get worse (and risk a flood or burst). We’ll quickly identify which you have and give you honest repair-or-replace options.
⚠️ A leaking water heater can also be a burst risk. Don’t ignore standing water around the unit.
Repair or replace cost
Valve/fitting repairs run $250–$700; a full replacement runs $1,400–$2,200. See repair or replace and replacement cost.
FAQs
Is a leaking water heater an emergency?
A slow valve drip may not be, but a leaking or burst tank is — water damage adds up fast. Shut off the water and power/gas and call right away.
Why is my water heater leaking from the bottom?
Often a worn drain valve or T&P discharge — but a steady pool under the tank usually means the tank has corroded through and needs replacement.
Can a leaking water heater be repaired?
Valve and connection leaks can be repaired. A leaking tank cannot — it must be replaced.
Is it safe to use a leaking water heater?
No — keep using it and you risk water damage, a possible burst, and (on gas/electric units) safety hazards. Shut it off and have it checked.
Related: Emergency repair · Replacement · Repair or replace
Talk to a local water heater pro
Same-day & emergency service in Westminster & Carroll County, MD.
Call (443) 247-4113