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If you’ve found water underneath your water heater, drips from the drain valve, or even water leaking from the bottom of your hot water tank, stop what you’re doing — and read this.
At John Padilla Plumbing, we’ve seen it all. As San Diego’s trusted drain professionals, we’re here to help you understand exactly why your water heater is leaking, what’s causing it, and how to fix it before it floods your home or fails.
Why Is My Water Heater Leaking?
There’s a big difference between condensation and a full-on water heater leak. If your water heater is leaking from the bottom, that’s not normal — and definitely not safe to ignore.
The most common causes of a leaking water heater:
- Corrosion inside the tank
- Worn-out drain valve
- Faulty pressure relief valve
- Loose pipe connections
- Sediment buildup
- Cracked internal tank
- Excess water pressure
- Old age or manufacturing defects
Wondering, “What causes a water heater to leak?” It’s often a mix of time, wear, and water chemistry.
Whether you have an electric hot water tank leaking from the top or a gas heater leaking water, the risks are the same: water damage, mold, and major repair costs.
What to Do When Your Water Heater Is Leaking
If you’ve spotted water heating leaking from the bottom, leaks from the thermostat, or water coming out the top of your water heater, here’s what to do now:
1. Turn Off the Power
- For electric models: Shut off the circuit breaker.
- For gas models: Turn the dial to OFF. (Don’t touch the gas shutoff valve unless necessary.)
2. Shut Off the Water Supply
- Use the cold water shutoff valve located at the top of the tank.
- If that’s not accessible due to flooding, shut off your home’s main water line.
3. Drain the Tank (If Safe)
- Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom.
- Run the hose to a floor drain or outdoors.
- Open the valve and release the pressure relief valve to help water flow.
- If you’re not confident doing this, wait for the pros.
How to Tell Where the Leak Is Coming From
When customers ask, “Why is my water heater leaking?” we check every inch. Here’s what we look for:
- Top of the tank: A water heater leaking from the top might mean loose inlet/outlet connections.
- Bottom of the tank: A water heater leaking from the bottom almost always means tank failure.
- Drain valve: A water heater leaking from the drain valve is a fixable part issue.
- T&P relief valve: This regulates pressure. If it leaks, it may need replacing.
- Thermostat, heating element, or pipes: All common spots for leaks or drips.
At John Padilla Plumbing, we quickly identify the source — whether it’s a water heater dripping from a pipe, leaking from the element, or condensation masking a real problem.
Dangers of Ignoring a Water Heater Leak
If you’ve turned off the water but the hot water tank is still leaking, you’re not just wasting water; you’re risking:
- Water damage to walls and floors
- Mold and mildew
- Structural rot
- Electrical hazards
- Gas leaks
- High utility bills
Even a small drip from your water heater can turn into a ruptured tank. Don’t wait until your water heater has water in the pan or water is coming from the unit itself.
Signs Your Water Heater Is About to Leak
Don’t wait for the flood. Call us at John Padilla Plumbing if you notice:
- Rusty water
- Strange noises (rumbling or popping)
- Low hot water pressure
- Fluctuating water temperatures
- The water heater is dripping inside the unit
- Moisture or rust around the base
- Unexplained water under the water heater
Prevent Leaks Before They Start
How to stop a leaking water heater? Prevention. Schedule regular maintenance with a pro.
Here’s what we recommend in San Diego:
- Flush the tank annually to reduce sediment.
- Inspect and replace the anode rod every 3–5 years.
- Test the pressure relief valve regularly.
- Tighten all connections and fittings.
- Monitor for water softener leaks at the top.
- Check for signs of hose leaks or corrosion.
Can You Repair a Leaking Water Heater?
It depends on what’s leaking. You can often:
- Repair leaking water heater valves
- Replace hoses, pipes, or T&P valves
- Fix leaks from the drain valve
But if the tank itself is leaking from the bottom, it’s done — you’ll need a replacement.
Wondering, “Can leaking water heaters be repaired?” or “How do you stop a water heater from leaking?” That’s our specialty. We’ll give you honest answers and fast fixes.
Still Wondering What to Do If Your Water Heater Is Leaking?
If you’ve searched:
- “Water heater leaking and no hot water”
- “Hot water tank leaking from the bottom.”
- “What should I do if my water heater is leaking?”
You already know it’s time to call in help.
Call the Pros at John Padilla Plumbing
As San Diego’s experts for drain and plumbing emergencies, John Padilla Plumbing handles everything from leaking gas water heaters to water heater draining water into your home.
We’ll inspect, diagnose, repair, and if needed, replace your unit fast.
Water heater leaking? Don’t wait.
Call John Padilla Plumbing in San Diego at 858-879-6969 and stop the damage before it spreads.
