What To Do About A Leaky Water Heater

by J&J on January 24, 2025

A leaky water heater can quickly become a homeowner’s nightmare, leading to water damage, high utility bills, and potential safety risks. At J&J Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, serving Northeast Ohio, we’re here to help you troubleshoot and resolve water heater issues before they escalate. Here’s what you need to know and do if you discover a leak.

Step 1: Identify the Source of the Leak

Not all water around your water heater indicates a leak. Check nearby appliances, pipes, or condensation that may create water buildup. If you confirm the water heater is the source, inspect these common areas for leaks:

• Cold water inlet and hot water outlet connections
• Temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve
• Drain valve
• Tank body (a sign of internal corrosion)

Step 2: Turn Off the Power and Water Supply

To avoid further damage and ensure safety:

• Turn off power: For electric heaters, switch off the circuit breaker. For gas heaters, set the gas control valve to "off."
• Shut off the water supply: Close the valve located at the cold water inlet to stop water from entering the tank.

Step 3: Drain the Tank (If Necessary)

If the tank is severely leaking, you may need to drain it to prevent flooding. Attach a hose to the drain valve and direct the water to a safe drainage area. Open a hot water faucet to release pressure and allow for smooth draining.

Step 4: Assess the Damage

Once the tank is drained, you can better inspect the source of the leak. Some issues, like loose connections or a faulty drain valve, can be easily fixed. However, if the tank itself is corroded or the T&P valve is compromised, replacement might be necessary.

Step 5: Call the Experts at J&J Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric

While minor fixes might be manageable, many water heater issues require professional expertise. At J&J Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, we provide reliable water heater repair and replacement services across Northeast Ohio. Our certified technicians can quickly diagnose the problem and recommend the best solution for your home’s needs.

Need a new water heater? Considering going tankless—call us for on-demand water heater installation.

Signs It’s Time for a New Water Heater

If your water heater is over 8–12 years old, leaking from the tank, or no longer providing consistent hot water, it might be time to replace it. We offer energy-efficient water heater options, including tankless models, to help you save on energy bills.

Why Choose J&J Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric?

• Over 30 years of experience serving Northeast Ohio
• Trusted by homeowners in Randolph, Brunswick, and beyond
• Expert technicians who prioritize quality and customer satisfaction

Don’t let a leaky water heater disrupt your day. Contact J&J Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric today for fast, dependable service you can trust.

Do you want to overhaul your plumbing system? We handle everything from small pipe repairs to whole-home re-piping.