What is what to do when water heater is leaking?

When your water heater is leaking, it's crucial to act quickly to prevent further damage and potential safety hazards. Here's a breakdown of what to do:

1. Shut Off the Water Supply: The very first step is to stop the water flow to the leaking water heater. Locate the cold water inlet valve on top of the tank and turn it clockwise to shut it off.

2. Turn Off the Power: Next, disconnect the power supply to the water heater. For electric water heaters, locate the circuit breaker in your electrical panel that controls the water heater and switch it to the "off" position. For gas water heaters, turn the gas control valve to the "pilot" position or "off".

3. Drain the Tank (If Necessary): If the leak is significant or you need to make repairs, you may need to drain the tank. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve located near the bottom of the water heater and run the hose to a safe drainage area. Open the drain valve to allow the water to drain. Be careful as the water may be very hot. Only drain if you are comfortable doing so. If not, it's best to call a professional.

4. Assess the Leak: Try to identify the source of the leak. Common leak locations include:

   • Connections (Pipes, fittings): These may just need tightening.
   • Pressure Relief Valve: This valve is designed to release pressure. If it's constantly leaking, it could indicate a problem with excessive pressure or a faulty valve.
   • Tank Itself: A leak from the tank itself often means the tank is corroded and needs to be replaced.
   • Drain Valve: The valve could be faulty or not closed properly.

5. Call a Professional: Unless you're experienced with plumbing and water heater repair, it's best to call a qualified plumber to diagnose and repair the problem. A leaking water heater can indicate a serious issue, and improper repairs can be dangerous.

6. Prevention: Regular water heater maintenance, such as flushing the tank annually to remove sediment, can help prevent leaks and extend the life of your water heater.