Leaking Water Heater in Raleigh: What to Do Now
Water around the base of the heater, a dripping pipe or a relief valve that keeps discharging? Shut things off safely, then work out where the water is coming from. That decides whether it is a repair or a replacement.
Free referral and information service. How it works
- Shut-off steps
- Tank vs valve leaks
- Raleigh water bill adjustment
If your water heater is leaking, turn off its power (electric) or set the gas control to off (gas), close the cold-water inlet valve above the heater, and keep the area dry. Then find the source: leaks from fittings, the drain valve or the relief valve can usually be repaired, but water coming from the tank body means the tank has failed and the heater needs replacing.
Not every puddle is the heater. Condensation on a cold inlet pipe, a nearby supply line or a clogged condensate line (on high-efficiency units) can look like a tank leak. Dry the area, then watch where new water appears.
If water spread into flooring, drywall or a ceiling below, a plumber fixes the heater, and you may also need someone to dry out the house.
Where the water is coming from
Relief valve or its pipe
Water from the T&P valve discharge line can mean too much pressure or temperature, or a worn valve.
Drain valve at the bottom
A drip from the drain valve is often a loose or worn valve that can be tightened or replaced.
Fittings on top
Leaks at the cold inlet, hot outlet or gas connection area are often fittings, nipples or connectors that can be repaired.
The tank itself
Water seeping from the tank body or from under the jacket means internal corrosion. The heater needs replacing.
What to do right now
- Turn off the energy. Switch off the breaker for an electric heater. Turn a gas control to OFF and close the gas supply valve.
- Close the cold-water valve on the inlet pipe above the heater. If it won't close, close the main water valve to the house.
- Keep it dry. Mop up, move stored items and use towels or a wet vac. Keep water away from outlets.
- Watch the relief valve. Don't cap or plug the T&P valve line. If it keeps discharging, leave the heater off.
- Take photos of the leak location, the label and any damage. Your insurer may ask for them.
What a plumber does
- Finds the source and checks whether it is the heater, a nearby pipe or condensation.
- Repairs valves and fittings such as the drain valve, relief valve, nipples and connectors.
- Checks pressure and whether an expansion tank or pressure-reducing valve is needed.
- Recommends replacement when the tank is leaking, and gives a full installed price.
Questions to ask the plumber
- Is the leak from the tank, a valve or a fitting?
- Can it be repaired, or does the tank need replacing?
- Is my water pressure too high, and do I need an expansion tank?
- What is the full price for the repair or the replacement?
- Can you give me a receipt that shows the repair for a utility leak adjustment?
Your Raleigh water bill after a leak
If you're a City of Raleigh water customer and a leak on your side of the meter ran up your bill, the city offers a courtesy leak adjustment on water and wastewater usage charges. Per the city's page, usage must be at least twice your monthly average, adjustments are limited to one in twelve months, and you need a plumber's receipt or other proof of repair. Check the details on raleighnc.gov.
Why water heaters leak
Tanks corrode from the inside over time, especially once the anode rod is used up. Sediment, high water pressure and thermal expansion add stress. Regular maintenance helps a tank last, but it can't fix one that is already leaking.
Frequently asked questions
Can a leaking water heater be repaired?
If the leak is from a valve, fitting or connector, usually yes. If water is coming from the tank body, no. The tank needs to be replaced.
Is it safe to use a leaking water heater?
Turn it off until a plumber checks it. A small fitting drip may not be dangerous by itself, but a failing tank or a relief valve that keeps opening shouldn't be left running.
Why is my water heater leaking from the bottom?
It could be the drain valve, water running down from a leak on top, condensation, or a failed tank. Dry it off and look for where the water first appears.
Why is the relief valve leaking?
The temperature and pressure relief valve opens when temperature or pressure gets too high, for example from thermal expansion or a thermostat problem. It can also wear out. Never plug it.
Will insurance cover water damage from a leaking water heater?
Many policies cover sudden water damage but not the heater itself or damage from a slow leak. Check your policy and ask your insurer.
Related help
No hot water or a leaking tank?
Turn off the power or gas to the heater and close the cold-water valve above it if water is leaking. Then get help from an independent local plumber.