Available 24/7 in Mission Viejo
Water Heater Leaking From the Bottom? Causes and What to Do
A puddle under the water heater does not always mean a dead tank. Here is how to find the source and what to do in the next 10 minutes.
Call Now – (949) 693-0298In this guide
- 1. Drain valve not sealing: repair
- 2. Relief valve water running down: repair
- 3. Condensation on gas units: check
- 4. Tank rusted through: replace
Why is my water heater leaking from the bottom?
A water heater leaking from the bottom is usually caused by one of four things: a drain valve that does not seal, water from the relief valve or top fittings running down the side, condensation on a gas unit, or a tank that has rusted through. The first three can be repaired. A leak from the tank itself means it needs replacing. Call (949) 693-0298 for help.
Our leaking water heater repair techs answer 24/7 in Mission Viejo, because a small drip can become a flooded garage fast.
What should you do first?
Shut off the cold water valve on the pipe above the water heater. Turn the gas control knob to off, or switch off the breaker on an electric unit. Move stored boxes away from the water, put down towels and take photos for insurance. Do not try to drain a hot tank yourself, because the water can scald.
- Close the cold water supply valve above the tank.
- Turn off the gas at the control knob, or switch off the breaker.
- Move stored items and protect drywall and flooring.
- Take photos of the leak and any damage.
- Call (949) 693-0298 and say where the water is coming from.
Is it the drain valve?
Check the drain valve, the faucet-like valve near the bottom of the tank. If water is dripping from its spout or around its threads, the valve is not sealing. Sometimes it just needs to be closed tight or capped. Plastic drain valves on older tanks often wear out and need to be replaced, which is a common, lower-cost repair.
Sediment from hard water can keep a drain valve from sealing after a flush. That is one reason we use the right parts during water heater maintenance.
Is it the relief valve or a fitting above?
Water from the top of the tank often runs down the side and pools at the bottom, so the leak looks lower than it is. Wipe the tank dry, then check the cold and hot connections on top and the relief (T&P) valve on the side. A dripping relief valve can mean high pressure or heat, and replacing it usually costs about $150 to $350.
A relief valve that drips often can also mean your home needs an expansion tank. A technician can check your water pressure.
Could it be condensation?
Yes, on gas water heaters. When the tank fills with cold water, moisture can form and drip onto the burner area, especially in cooler months. Condensation usually stops once the water heats up. If the water keeps coming after the tank is hot, or you see rust, the tank may be failing.
Do not ignore water near the burner. It can put out the pilot or damage the burner parts.
How do you know the tank has failed?
If the drain valve, fittings and relief valve are all dry but water keeps pooling under the tank, the tank itself has likely rusted through. You may also see rust on the bottom edge or rusty hot water. A leaking tank cannot be repaired and should be replaced soon, before it fails all at once.
A standard 40 to 50 gallon tank replacement in Mission Viejo usually costs about $1,900 to $3,800 installed. See our water heater replacement cost guide for what is included.
How can you prevent leaks at the bottom of the tank?
Flush the tank about once a year to clear sediment, which helps the drain valve seal and slows rust at the bottom. Have the anode rod checked every few years, since it protects the tank from corrosion. Keep the relief valve tested, set the temperature to about 120 degrees, and add a drain pan where a leak could damage floors.
An anode rod replacement usually costs about $200 to $450, much less than a new tank. Our water heater maintenance visit covers the flush, the anode check and the relief valve test.
Does insurance cover water damage from a leaking water heater?
Many homeowner policies cover sudden water damage, like a tank that bursts, but not the water heater itself or damage from a slow leak that went on for a long time. Take photos and video of the leak and the damage before cleanup, and keep the old parts. Call your insurance company soon after the leak is stopped.
A written note from the technician about the cause of the leak can help your claim.
What does it cost to fix a water heater leaking from the bottom?
Most leak repairs, like a new drain valve, relief valve or fitting, fall within our typical repair range of about $150 to $650. If the tank has failed, a standard tank replacement runs about $1,900 to $3,800 installed. You get the price before any work starts.
For any other water heater problem, start with our water heater repair Mission Viejo page, or call (949) 693-0298 any time.
Frequently asked questions
Is a water heater leaking from the bottom an emergency?
It can be. If the tank is leaking, it can fail and flood the area. Shut off the water and gas or power and call right away.
Can a water heater leaking from the bottom be fixed?
Yes, if the leak is from the drain valve, relief valve or a fitting above. No, if the tank itself is leaking. Then it must be replaced.
Can I still use my water heater if it is leaking from the bottom?
Turn it off until you know the source. A drain valve drip may be minor, but a tank leak can get worse quickly.
Does insurance cover a leaking water heater?
Many policies cover sudden water damage but not the water heater itself or slow leaks. Check your policy and take photos.
Talk to a water heater pro now
Questions about your water heater? Call a local pro in Mission Viejo, CA. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
(949) 693-0298 Call Now – (949) 693-0298