Water at the base of a water heater can come from several places. Some are simple repairs. One means the tank is done.
Shut it down first
- Close the cold-water valve on the inlet pipe at the top of the heater.
- Gas: turn the control to off or pilot. Electric: switch off the breaker.
- Keep away from electrical parts if you are standing in water.
Where the water could be coming from
- The drain valve near the bottom: often just loose or worn, and fixable.
- The relief valve discharge pipe: the valve is opening on pressure or temperature; have the cause checked.
- Fittings or supply lines at the top, running down the side: usually fixable.
- The tank body itself, often with rust at the bottom: the tank has failed and needs replacing.
If the tank has failed
Plan a replacement. In the City of San Diego a standard tank swap uses a simple no-plan permit; the new heater must be strapped, and needs a drain pan wherever a leak could cause damage.
General information, not professional or legal advice; follow your manufacturer's manual, and your installer and local permit office have the final word. Sources:City of San Diego, Plumbing/Gas Permit; California Plumbing Code sections 507.2, 507.5 and 608.3 (as summarized in a city water heater handout).
Leaking Water Heater in San Diego →