Is this your problem?
- Water pooling at the base of the tank
- Drips from the top fittings, the drain valve, or the side relief valve
- Rust streaks running down the tank body
- Hot water that's rusty, plus moisture around the unit
Leaking Water Heater? Get a licensed pro on the line now.
Free for homeowners · 24/7 · Licensed local pros
What to do right now
Turn off the energy supply
Electric: switch the breaker off. Gas: turn the gas control to PILOT or OFF per the printed instructions.
Shut the cold water inlet
Turn the cold-water valve above the heater clockwise. This stops new water feeding the leak.
Drain pressure if safe
If the leak is small and the area is electrically safe, attach a hose to the drain valve and route it to a floor drain — only if you can do it without standing in water.
Contain and photograph
Towels and a bucket buy time. Photograph the leak location and any damage for insurance.
Call now, not tomorrow
Call (844) 699-1165. A leaking tank almost always means replacement — the sooner a pro sees it, the less damage spreads.
Stay safe
- Don't touch electrical panels or breakers with wet hands or while standing in water.
- A severely corroded tank can rupture — if the tank is bulging or the leak suddenly worsens, clear the area.
- Gas smell near the heater? Leave and follow local emergency guidance.
- Scalding risk: water inside is 120°F+. Let the pro handle draining.
Mistakes to avoid
- Waiting 'to see if it stops' — tank leaks only get worse.
- Patching the tank with sealant or epoxy — unsafe and never lasts.
- Draining a tank without shutting off energy first — you'll burn out elements or damage the unit.
- Ignoring a dripping relief valve — it can signal dangerous pressure buildup.
What to tell the plumber when you call
Have these answers ready — it gets you the right pro faster and a more accurate quote.
- Gas or electric, tank size, and age
- Where the water is coming from: base, top fittings, drain valve, relief valve
- How fast it's leaking — damp, dripping, or pooling
- Where the heater is located and how to access it
- Whether you need hot water restored urgently (household size helps sizing)
Not quite your problem?
| No hot water but no leak | No hot water guide → |
| Small drip from a nearby pipe, tank looks dry | Pipe leak guidance → |
| Relief valve dripping after heating cycle only | Often a pressure issue — mention it on the call → |
Leaking Water Heater — FAQs
Can a leaking water heater be repaired?
How urgent is a small leak?
What does replacement cost?
Should I upgrade to tankless while I'm at it?
Leaking Water Heater Guides by Metro
Same problem, local context — climate, housing, and water conditions that change the advice.