Water Heater Leaking? What to Do Right Now in Arlington

If your water heater is leaking, turn off the power or gas, close the cold water valve on top of the tank, and find where the water is coming from. A leak at a fitting or valve is often a simple repair. A leak from the tank itself usually means the heater needs to be replaced. If you cannot find the source, call (817) 285-5426, 24/7.

Safety first: water and electricity do not mix. If water is near outlets or the electric panel, stay clear and turn off power at the breaker only if you can reach it safely.

What should I do first when my water heater leaks?

Stop the water and the heat. Turn the gas control to "off" or switch off the breaker for an electric heater. Close the cold water supply valve on the inlet pipe. Then soak up the water, move stored items away and take photos for insurance.

1. Turn off the gas valve or the breaker.
2. Close the cold water valve above the tank.
3. Open a hot water faucet to relieve pressure.
4. Clean up the water and protect nearby drywall and flooring.
5. Find the source using the guide below.

Not sure where your main shut-off is? See our guide to the main water shut-off valve.

Where is my water heater leak coming from?

Check from the top down. Leaks at the top are often loose inlet or outlet fittings. A leak from the side pipe is usually the temperature and pressure relief valve. A drip at the bottom can be the drain valve. Water pooling under the tank with none of these wet often means the tank has rusted through.

Is it the water heater or a hidden leak nearby?

If the tank and fittings are dry but the floor or wall next to the heater is wet, the water may be coming from a supply line in the wall or a line under the slab. In Arlington homes, water heater closets often sit on the slab with hot lines running underneath, so a warm, damp floor nearby can point to a slab leak.

A heater that runs nonstop, a higher gas or power bill, and warm spots on the floor are signs of a hot water slab leak. Our slab leak detection service can confirm it without breaking the floor.

Repair or replace: how do I decide?

Repair makes sense when a valve or fitting is leaking on a newer heater. Replacement is usually the better choice if the tank itself is leaking, the heater is more than 10 to 12 years old, or rust shows on the tank or in the hot water. A tank leak cannot be patched safely.

• Under 8 years old, fitting or valve leak: repair
• Over 10 to 12 years old: plan a replacement
• Tank leaking or rusty water: replace
• Repeated relief valve leaks: check home water pressure

How can I prevent water heater leaks?

Drain a few gallons from the tank once a year to flush sediment, which builds up quickly with hard North Texas water. Test the relief valve, check fittings for rust, and keep a drain pan under the tank. A water leak alarm on the floor gives early warning.

Arlington water is moderately hard, so sediment builds up at the bottom of tanks over time. Flushing helps the heater work better and last longer. Also watch your water bill, since a hidden leak can look like a heater problem. See why your water bill is high.