A Water Heater Leak Usually Isn't a Big Deal

Finding a water heater leak in your basement is not what anyone wants to see but it’s often something you can fix yourself. You need to locate where the leak is coming from first.

If it is coming from the tank itself, the tank is probably rusted out and you’ll need to replace it. At this point, you may want to consider a tankless water heater.
Take a look at our page on it for more information there.

Get yourself a flashlight or work light and check and tighten the following:

• hot and cold water pipes
• drain valve
• anode rod
• temperature & pressure relief valve
• thermostat
• heating elements

If the leak is at the drain valve and the valve is brass, replace the stem or packing washer.

If the valve is a plastic it needs replacing. You don’t have to drain the tank for this job (although it’s a good thing to do a couple times a year) but you do need to remove the pressure from the tank.

Close the cold water inlet valve and turn on any hot water faucet just to let some water flow.
Shut it off now making sure no one uses any water until you are done.

If you have an electric heater, turn the power OFF. If it’s a gas heater turn the control to “PILOT”.
Put a pan under the valve to catch any water and unscrew it.

Repair this water heater leak by wrapping pipe joint tape around the nipple on the water tank then screwing on the new valve.

If you are uncomfortable with this type of water heater repair, call a professional. If you have any home repair tips, please