Hot Water Heater Leaking? Here is What to Do
What to Do When Your Hot Water Heater Is Leaking
A leaking hot water heater is one of those problems that goes from “slightly annoying” to “major damage” in a heartbeat.
Even a small drip can soak flooring, weaken drywall, create mold problems, and send your utility bills climbing.
Homeowners across Calera, Pelham, Alabaster, Helena, Chelsea, Montevallo, Hoover, and Birmingham run into this far more often than they expect — and almost always at the worst possible time.
If you’ve discovered water pooling around your hot water heater, here’s what it really means, why it’s happening, and how professional repair or installation can save your home from costly damage.
Why Water Heater Leaks Happen
A leak is your system’s way of waving a big red flag.
The most common causes include:
1. A failing temperature & pressure (T&P) relief valve
This valve opens when the tank gets too much pressure or heat. If it’s faulty, worn out, or stuck open, water will begin dripping from the discharge pipe.
2. A loose or damaged drain valve
Located near the bottom of the tank, this valve can leak if it’s not sealed correctly or has been weakened over time.
3. Internal tank corrosion
When the inside of the tank rusts — often due to a worn-out anode rod — leaks eventually form. Internal corrosion is permanent and always requires replacement.
4. Excessive pressure in the tank
High water pressure or a malfunctioning thermostat can cause the tank to release water as a safety precaution.
5. Cracks in the tank
If the tank has overheated or aged out, small cracks can form and release water steadily.
How to Tell If Your Water Heater Is Repairable
The good news: not every leak means your hot water heater is finished.
Dogwood Plumbing inspects the system thoroughly to determine whether a repair or a full replacement is the safer long-term move.
A repair may be possible when:
- The T&P valve is malfunctioning
- The drain valve needs tightening or replacement
- A connection is loose or improperly sealed
- The leak is coming from external fittings rather than the tank itself
These repairs are typically fast, affordable, and can extend the life of your system significantly.
A hot water heater replacement is necessary when:

- Water is leaking from the tank body
- Internal corrosion is visible or strongly suspected
- The system is 8–12+ years old
- You’re seeing multiple ongoing issues (pressure, temperature fluctuations, rust, etc.
Once a tank cracks or rusts through, repair is not possible — and delaying replacement increases the risk of a major flood.
Why Fast Action Matters
A leaking water heater doesn’t stabilize or “slow down” on its own.
Small leaks almost always turn into large leaks, and the longer water sits on floors and walls, the more expensive the damage becomes.
Ignoring a leak can lead to:
- Mold growth
- Structural damage
- Electrical hazards
- Higher energy bills
- Complete tank failure
Homeowners in Calera, Pelham, Alabaster, Helena, Chelsea, Montevallo, Hoover, and Birmingham.
Call Dogwood Plumbing because we respond quickly, diagnose accurately, and provide clear recommendations to keep their homes protected.
Professional Installation Protects You Long-Term
If replacement is the right move, correct installation is critical.
A professionally installed water heater is safer, more efficient, and far less likely to leak prematurely.
Dogwood Plumbing ensures every connection is tight, every component is functioning properly, and your new system is built to last.
Get Your Water Heater Leak Resolved Today
A leaking water heater won’t fix itself — but you can stop the damage before it spreads.
Dogwood Plumbing provides expert repair and installation services across Calera, Pelham, Alabaster, Helena, Chelsea, Montevallo, Hoover, and Birmingham.
We’ll identify the cause, explain your options, and get your system back to safe, reliable operation.
When water starts leaking, that’s your signal to act fast.
Dogwood Plumbing is ready when you are.
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