Why Is My Hot Water Tank Leaking?

Water pooling around your hot water tank may be due to a faulty drain valve or plumbing connection, a corroded tank, an issue with the pressure relief valve, or simply condensation. Some causes can be easily repaired, while others may require a replacement unit. Because leaking water heaters may involve hot water, electricity, gas, and potential property damage, seeking immediate help from a professional is recommended.

There are numerous reasons why your hot water tank may be leaking water. A professional assessment by a qualified HVAC technician can help you determine the root cause and whether the problem is repairable. Below is a breakdown of possible causes in relation to where the water appears:

It depends. Water may come from plumbing above the tank, nearby plumbing, as a result of condensation, a floor drain, or an appliance close to your water tank. Here's what you can look for if you notice water in and around your hot water heater:

• Where the water first appears.

• Whether the top of the tank is wet or not.

• Whether water is coming from a pipe or valve nearby.

• Whether the discharge pipe is wet on the outside.

• Whether moisture is appearing directly on the tank body.

• Whether water seems to be running down from somewhere above.

The water heater may be hot. Avoid touching the unit or removing the covers. If you're unable to identify where the water is coming from, call a professional HVAC technician as soon as possible for assistance.

Water that stems from the top of your water heater doesn't necessarily mean you're dealing with a tank failure. Here are some common causes:

Cold-water inlet or hot-water outlet connection

The plumbing connections at the top of your storage tank may develop a leak. If the water is coming from a plumbing line instead of the tank itself, the problem is likely repairable without having to replace the entire unit.

Nearby plumbing

A pipe, valve, or fitting located about the water heater may also release water when damaged that can trickle down the outside of the tank before pooling underneath it.

Condensation

Condensation may also cause moisture buildup around your appliance, if the water inside the water tank is cold and then begins operating.

If your water heater is leaking from the bottom, it may be due to the following:

Drain valve or drain connection

A leak near the drain valve can stem from the valve itself or the surrounding plumbing connection, rather than the tank.

Water running down from above

The temperature pressure relief valve discharge pipe or a top plumbing connection could be loose or cracked, causing water to travel down the tank and onto your flooring.

Tank-body failure

If the storage tank is visibly leaking, it could be due to corrosion inside, cracks, or holes that have developed.

A temperature pressure relief valve is a safety mechanism responsible for relieving excessive temperature or pressure during operation. Water may leak through the valve or pipe due to thermal expansion or temperature control problems. Do not plug, cap, block, or modify the pressure relief value or discharge pipe. For safety reasons, the opening must remain unobstructed at all times.

Absolutely. Moisture around your water heater can oftentimes be moisture, rather than a plumbing or tank leak. Condensation can occur due to:

• High indoor humidity levels

• Very cold water entering the system

• Moisture forming on a cold pipe

If moisture increases or continues, have your system inspected by a licensed plumber as it may not be considered normal.

No. Whether or not your hot water heater needs to be replaced will depend on where the leak is coming from and the current condition of your equipment.

Repairs are often possible when the leak comes from:

• Certain plumbing connections

• Certain valves or fittings

• A repairable component

• Another nearby plumbing source

Whereas, a replacement may be more suited when:

• The tank itself is leaking

• Significant corrosion is present

• Welded corners are damaged

• You're dealing with regular repairs

• Your equipment is older/nearing the end of its service life.

The age of your home's water heater does not automatically determine whether or not it should be replaced. Natural Resources Canada recommended upgrade to a new water heater when your current one is more than 10 years old. However, this does not mean that every 10 year old water heater needs to be replaced immediately. It can, however, provide context to your circumstances, when you're experiencing a leak.

If your home's water heater is older, consider the following:

• Is the tank itself leaking?

• Is corrosion visible?

• Has the unit required repeated repair?

• Is the manufacturer warranty still active?

• Are parts available?

• Does the equipment still meet household demand?

• What will the proposed repair cost?

• What other age-related issues are developing?

Leaking water heaters should not be ignored. The safest thing you can do will depend on the source of the leak and how severe it is.

1. Treat an active leak promptly

Don't wait to see whether the leak gets worse or disappears. Even a small leak can create signifiant water damage in your home.

2. Keep people away from unsafe standing water

Be cautious of whether the water is near any electrical panels, wiring, or other equipment.

3. If you smell gas, leave immediately

If you smell gas in your home, leave the area and get too a safe location before immediately contacting emergency services and Enbridge Gas at 1-866-763-5427.

4. Observe the leak only from a safe position

If it's safe to do so, take note of where the water appears to be coming from:

• Top, side, or bottom

• Pipe or fitting

• Pressure reducing valve

• The water tank

• Nearby plumbing

5. Protect belongings if you can do so safely

If you can safely enter the area where your water heater is stored, remove any nearby items that may be ruined by the water.

6. Schedule professional repair

Contact a professional HVAC technician in your area who can determine the source of the problem and whether a repair or replacement unit is needed in your home. Avoid draining the tank, disconnecting wiring or tubes, and tinkering with fuel or electrical parts.

Yes, tankless systems can also leak. Potential sources of leaks could stem from:

• Internal components

• Pressure reducing valves

• Water connection lines

• Heat exchanger

To reduce the likelihood of future leaks, preventative care is essential:

Follow manufacturer maintenance guidance

Maintenance requirements will vary between manufacturer's and models. Have a peek at your owner's manual for details about how often you should have your water heater serviced.

Have equipment professionally serviced

Natural Resources Canada recommended booking a professional maintenance appointment for your water heater every one to two years.

Pay attention to early warning signs

Periodically, keep an eye out for potential warning signs including:

• Moisture buildup

• Corrosion

• Repeated pressure relief discharge

• Unusual sounds and odd smells

• Inconsistent hot water in your home

• Frequent repair calls

Know the age of your equipment

Pay attention to the age of your unit by taking note of what's listed on your appliance. Knowing when your water heater was installed can make planning your replacement a lot easier, and help you avoid potential unexpected breakdowns in the future.

Keep the area visible

Avoid storing any personal belongings or flammable items near your water heater. Keeping the area clean and accessible will make it easier to spot potential leaks and conduct maintenance/repairs.

Unsure whether to repair or replace your current water heater? Below is a decision checklist to help you make an informed decision on how to move forward:

Note that only a professional assessment will be able to confirm where the leak originates from and the current condition of your home's water heater.

Leaking water heaters can by tricky, as the source of the leak isn't always obvious. If your water heater is leaking in your Ontario home, book a same-day appointment with a certified technician from our partner network across the Greater Toronto Area.

Call 1-833-947-3850 to book your appointment today.