A wet floor under the hot water tank can be anything from condensation to a tank that is about to let go. Start with the steps that make it safe, then work out where the water is coming from.
The first 10 minutes
- Turn off the cold water supply to the tank: the valve on the cold inlet pipe at the top. If you can't find it or it won't turn, shut off the main water valve to the house.
- Electric tank: switch off its breaker at the panel.
- Gas tank: turn the gas control knob to off or pilot, following the label on the tank. If you smell gas, leave the house and call your gas utility's emergency line from outside.
- Tankless unit: turn off its power and close the water isolation valves under it.
- Move anything that can be damaged, and put down towels or a pan to catch water.
- Keep clear of hot water: the tank and anything leaking from it can scald.
Where is it coming from?
- From the top: a loose or corroded inlet or outlet fitting, often repairable.
- From the pressure-relief (T&P) valve or its discharge pipe: the valve may be faulty, or the tank is overheating or over-pressurised. Don't plug or cap it; it's a safety device.
- From the drain valve near the bottom: a valve that isn't fully closed or has worn out. Usually repairable.
- From the bottom of the tank itself, or water pooling with rust: the tank is corroding through. That's a replacement, and it can get worse quickly.
- Only after a cold-water fill, and it dries up: possibly condensation, especially on gas tanks. Watch it before assuming the worst.
Repair or replace?
Fittings and valves can usually be repaired. A leak from the tank body can't; the tank has to be replaced. Age matters too: a tank well past its expected life that starts leaking is usually better replaced than patched. If you're replacing, it's a good moment to compare a new tank with a tankless unit. Our water heater buying guide covers the trade-offs.
Common questions
Is a leaking water heater dangerous?
The water damage is the most common risk, but a tank that leaks from the pressure-relief valve may be overheating, and a gas tank with a gas smell is an emergency. Shut it down as above and get it checked.
Can I keep using hot water until it's fixed?
If the leak is from a fitting or the drain valve and you've stopped it, sometimes. If it's leaking from the tank body, keep it off; a corroded tank can fail suddenly.
Who repairs and replaces water heaters?
We handle water heater repair and replacement, tank and tankless. A plumber answers (604) 870-1442 24/7, and every job starts with a free estimate.