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IQHab › United States › Plumbing › Water Heater Leaking — What To Do First

Water heater leaking — what to do

A leaking water heater can dump water and damage floors, drywall and more. Act quickly.

Do this now

  1. Turn off the water heater's water supply valve (cold inlet).
  2. Turn off power or the gas to the unit.
  3. If it's a gas unit, turn off the gas valve and call the gas utility or a plumber.

Don't do this

  • Don't leave a gas unit running if the leak is fuel- or combustion-related.
  • Don't keep the water supply on — it will keep filling and leaking.

Urgency

High — shut the supply and power/gas, then call a plumber.

Limit the damage

  • Dry the area and move belongings away.
  • Check for a nearby floor drain; remove water quickly.
  • A pan and drain can catch future leaks.

What to document

  • Photos of the leak and water level.
  • The unit's age and model tag.

Cost estimate

Repair $150–$600; replacement $800–$2,800.

Professional

A plumber (or a water heater specialist).