Older water heater with a small leak while a technician arrives with a tool bag

Emergency checklist

Water heater leaking? What to do first

Act calmly, prioritize safety, stop water only if it is safe to reach, and document the leak location before requesting help.

If there is danger

If you smell gas, see scorched wiring, or water is near electrical components, leave the area and contact the appropriate utility or emergency service.

Request help when safe

Immediate steps

1. If there is gas smell or electrical danger, leave the area.
2. Turn off the water supply if the shutoff is safe to reach.
3. For gas/electric units, only follow manufacturer shutoff instructions if safe.
4. Move belongings and take photos of the leak location.
5. Request service if the tank body or bottom seam appears to be leaking.

Leak location matters

May be repairable

Valve, fitting, pipe connection, or drain valve leak.

Replacement likely

Water from the tank body, bottom seam, or rusted-through shell.

Water heater emergency and replacement decision guide

Once the area is safe

Send photos and symptoms

Share city, urgency, leak location, and tank photos so a provider can understand the situation faster.

Start request