Why Is My Water Heater Leaking?

Reviewed by Alejandro Morales, Co-Owner & FL Certified Plumbing Contractor (FL license CFC1431159)Updated Oct 13, 2026

What are the most common reasons a water heater leaks?

In Tampa Bay, hard water leaves scale in the tank, and that speeds up wear. Here is what we find most often:

Pooling water under the heater does not always mean the tank is dead. Condensation on cold pipes and a clogged drain pan can look like a leak too.

Safety note: Never touch a wet electric heater with the power on, and do not plug or cap the T&P valve pipe, since the water can be scalding.

Is a leaking water heater an emergency?

A small drip at a fitting can wait a short while if you shut off the water and power. A steady leak, water near the electrical panel or flooring, or a leak in a closet or attic is urgent. Water can soak drywall and ceilings fast, and many Tampa Bay heaters sit in garages or attics where damage goes unseen.

How do I know if I need a new water heater?

Several signs point to replacement instead of repair:

• The leak comes from the tank itself, not a fitting or valve.
• The heater is past its typical life and has a history of rust or sediment.
• Rusty hot water comes out of the taps.
• Repeated repairs keep adding up.

Once a tank rusts through, no part can fix it. We replace it and haul the old one away. We pull the permit and schedule the inspection, and the permit fee is billed separately. Our preferred brand is Rheem, and we service and install all brands.

Can I prevent a water heater from leaking?

You can slow the wear. Tampa water averages 10.8 grains per gallon of hardness, which is very hard, so scale builds up in the tank and on elements. A yearly flush clears sediment and lets a tech inspect the valves, fittings and anode rod before they fail. Our water heater repair service covers flushes, valves, elements and replacements. The flush also includes a whole-house plumbing inspection. A water softener helps too, especially with a tankless heater.

What does Home Therapist do about a leaking water heater?

We find the source, tell you whether it is a repair or a replacement, and give you a written quote. You approve it before any work begins. Estimates and diagnosis are FREE on every visit, at any hour, and we are open 24/7. Same-day service is available on many jobs. Call or text (813) 343-2212. For other household trouble, browse our common problems guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my water heater leaking from the bottom?

Water at the bottom can come from a drain valve, a loose fitting dripping down, or the tank itself. If the tank has rusted through, it cannot be repaired and must be replaced. Shut off the water and power, then have a technician confirm the source.

Why is my water heater leaking from the top?

Leaks at the top usually come from the cold or hot supply connections, a corroded nipple, or the T&P valve. These are often repairable without replacing the tank. Water running down the outside can also make a top leak appear to come from lower.

Is it safe to keep using a leaking water heater?

It is better not to. Leaks can worsen without warning and cause water damage or electrical hazards. Turn off the power and the cold water supply, then call for a diagnosis. Ours is FREE at any hour.

Why does my T&P valve keep dripping?

The valve opens when pressure or temperature gets too high, or it may be worn and not seating. Thermal expansion from a missing or failed expansion tank is a common cause. Do not cap it. Have it tested and replaced if needed.

Can a leaking water heater be repaired?

Yes, if the leak is at a fitting, valve, element gasket or expansion tank. If the tank body is leaking, replacement is the only fix. We tell you which it is after the FREE diagnosis and give you a written quote first.