It’s often simple to determine what course of action to take when your water heater leaks from the bottom, as sediment is a common culprit. However, noticing a leak from the top of your unit is another story – it’s a problem that leaves many homeowners unsure where to start. 

Fortunately, there are steps you can take if you notice a similar issue in your home. Understanding how to fix a leaking water heater begins with knowing the parts at the top of your equipment, where loose or corroded parts often cause leaks. 

Key Water Heater Components To Know When Dealing With Top Leaks 

• Cold Water Inlet Valve: This valve regulates the flow of cold water entering the unit for heating. It’s usually at the top of the water heater and connects to your home’s water supply. 
• Hot Water Outlet: The heated water is directed through this outlet pipe to be distributed throughout your home. Its role is to ensure a steady flow of hot water to your fixtures. 
• Temperature and Pressure (T&P) Relief Valve: A critical safety feature, the T&P valve releases water if the internal temperature or pressure exceeds safe limits, protecting the tank from damage. 
• Anode Rod: This sacrificial rod prevents internal corrosion by attracting corrosive particles in the water, extending the water heater’s life.  
• Expansion Tank: Some water heaters have an auxiliary tank mounted on top to accommodate thermal expansion and maintain consistent water pressure as the water heats. 

Common Reasons Behind a Water Heater Leaking From the Top

Several factors can cause a water heater to leak from above. Here’s a quick rundown of what components to inspect:

Loose Cold Water Inlet Valve 

Over time, the cold water inlet valve can loosen, allowing water to seep out at the connection point. This is a common cause of leaks at the top of a water heater. 

Loose or Corroded Inlet and Outlet Fittings 

The fittings that connect the cold water inlet and hot water outlet can wear down or corrode, leading to leaks around these connection points. 

Loose or Corroded T&P Valves

If the T&P valve becomes loose, water can seep from the connection where it threads into the tank. Over time, the valve or threaded connection can also corrode, weakening the seal and allowing leaks. 

Anode Rod

While this component is designed to attract corrosive elements in the water, the rod can rust over time. When this happens, water can leak at the top of the heater. 

Leaking Expansion Tank 

As the expansion tank is typically installed on top of a water heater, any damage to the tank or its fittings can cause water to leak from the connection point. 

How To Prevent Water Heater Leaks 

Here are some ways to keep your equipment in top shape and avoid leaks. 

Test the Pressure Relief Valve Regularly

Debris and mineral buildup can keep the T&P valve from working correctly. Place a bucket under the valve to catch any water to test it. Then, carefully lift the valve’s lever to let a small amount of water flow out.

A correctly functioning valve will release water and then close tightly when you let go of the lever. If the valve doesn’t shut properly or continues to leak, it may need to be replaced. 

Check and Tighten Water Heater Connections

It is equally important to inspect the water heater’s connections where the cold water enters and the hot water exits. These fittings can loosen over time, leading to leaks. Periodic checks and tightening can help prevent water seepage from these critical joints. 

Monitor the Area Around Your Water Heater

Checking the area around your heating equipment for signs of moisture or leaks is a simple yet effective preventive measure. Look at the top, underneath, and behind the unit, where hidden leaks may develop. Keeping an eye out for small leaks can help you prevent costly repairs. 

Stay Consistent With Routine Maintenance

Routine maintenance, such as flushing the tank annually, can help reduce sediment buildup: an issue that can lead to leaks and valve issues. Sediment accumulation can cause undue pressure inside the tank and interfere with normal operation, making regular flushing essential. 

What To Do if a Water Heater Is Leaking From the Top 

When you discover your water heater leaking from the top, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent further and often costly water damage to your home. This step-by-step guide walks you through assessing the situation and determining whether professional help is needed. 

1. Turn Off the Power Supply

Safety comes first. Before doing anything, ensure the water heater is turned off to prevent electrical or gas hazards. 

• If you have an electric water heater, find the circuit breaker for your water heater and switch it off. 
• For gas water heaters, shut off the gas supply by turning the valve to the “off” position.

2. Shut Off the Water Supply

Next, you’ll want to stop the water flow to the heater to prevent more water from leaking out and causing damage. 

The shut-off valve is usually located on the cold water inlet pipe at the top of the heater. Turn it clockwise to stop water from entering the tank.

3. Relieve Pressure 

Relieve the pressure from the water heater to avoid any surprises during the inspection. This can be done by opening a nearby hot water faucet, which will release built-up pressure and allow you to work on the heater safely. 

4. Inspect the Top Components for Leaks

Inspect the parts on top of the water heater. The most common sources of leaks include: 

• Cold Water Inlet and Hot Water Outlet Pipes: Check for loose connections or corrosion. Tighten loose fittings with a wrench, but avoid over tightening to prevent further damage.
• Temperature and Pressure (T&P) Relief Valve: This valve is designed to release water if the pressure gets too high. If it’s leaking, it may need to be replaced.
• Anode Rod Port: Over time, the anode rod can wear out, leading to leaks. If the rod is damaged, professional help may be needed to replace it.​

5. Tighten or Replace Faulty Components

If you discover a loose fitting or connection, use a wrench to tighten it. If tightening the connection doesn’t stop the leak, you may need to replace the faulty part, such as the T&P valve or fittings. 

6. Check for Corrosion or Cracks

If the top of your water heater tank shows signs of rust or corrosion, it could indicate that the tank is weakening. Unfortunately, the corrosion on the tank itself may not be fixable, and the entire water heater may need to be replaced. 

When To Call a Professional 

While it might be tempting to try and find out how to fix a leaking water heater yourself, calling a professional offers several benefits. They can accurately diagnose hidden issues and ensure that repairs are done right the first time. More importantly, they can assess whether your heating equipment is nearing the end of its lifespan and recommend a replacement. 

Consulting a water damage expert is also crucial if the leak has already caused damage. With a professional water restoration team cleaning your home, drying the affected area, and making the necessary repairs, you can restore your home’s comfort and protect your property from long-term damage. 

Need Help After a Water Heater Leak? Restoration 1 Is Ready To Assist

At Restoration 1, we’re available around the clock for emergencies such as water heater leaks. Our expertise covering both water mitigation and water damage restoration means you can be assured that our technicians can restore your home safely and efficiently. 

No matter your water heater problem, Restoration 1 is here to get your home back to normal. Contact us to find a local restoration expert ready to help 24/7.