Safety first: if there is fire, gas smell, or electrical risk near water, leave and call 911 or your utility first.
Shut it down
- Close the cold-water supply valve on top of the tank.
- For gas, turn the gas control to off or pilot. For electric, switch off the heater's breaker.
- If the tank is leaking badly, close the home's main shut-off as well.
- Keep clear of hot water and the burner area.
Where is the water coming from?
- Top fittings: loose or corroded connections that a plumber can often fix.
- Temperature and pressure relief valve: may be releasing because of pressure or heat, or may be failing.
- Drain valve near the bottom: sometimes just needs tightening or replacement.
- The tank itself: water seeping from the bottom of the tank usually means the tank has failed.
Tucson's hard water
Tucson's water is hard, meaning it carries dissolved minerals. Sediment builds up in tanks, which is one reason plumbers often recommend periodic flushing. Ask a plumber what schedule makes sense for your heater.
Limit the damage
Pull baseboards back only if you are comfortable doing so, move stored items out of the garage puddle, and photograph everything. If water reached drywall, cabinets, or flooring, a restoration contractor can check moisture inside the walls.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep using a leaking water heater?
It is safer to shut it off and have a plumber look at it. A small leak can become a large one.
Will insurance cover a water heater leak?
Policies often treat sudden leaks differently from wear and slow leaks. Ask your insurer.
More guides
- Water damage: what to do in the first 24 hours
- Swamp cooler leaks and mold
- Monsoon prep checklist for Tucson homes
- Water damage insurance claim tips
- Slab leak signs in Tucson homes
- Mold after a leak: what to know
- How to vet a restoration contractor in Arizona
- Roof leak or plumbing leak?
- Preventing burst pipes during a Tucson freeze
- Smoke odor and soot after a small fire
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