Is a leaking water heater dangerous?

A leaking tank isn't usually dangerous on its own, but water near a gas burner or electrical parts should be dealt with quickly. Shut off the cold supply and the power or gas until it's checked.

Should I drain my water heater every year?

Flushing a few gallons from the drain valve once or twice a year helps remove sediment. If the valve hasn't been opened in years, a plumber can do it so the old valve doesn't start leaking.

Water Heater Service · Yakima, WA

Water Heater Repair & Replacement in Yakima, WA

Most water heaters give some warning before they fail: rusty water, popping noises or a slow leak at the base. Catching those signs early avoids a cold morning and a wet floor.

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No hot water at all

On a gas heater, check whether the pilot is lit and the gas control is on. On an electric heater, check the breaker and the reset button behind the upper panel cover, with the power off. If the reset trips again, an element or thermostat has likely failed.

Not enough hot water

Sediment settles at the bottom of a tank and takes up space, so a heater that used to cover two showers may now run out after one. A failing dip tube or a bad lower element on an electric tank causes the same symptom.

Noises and rust

Popping and rumbling usually come from sediment boiling under water. Rust-colored hot water can mean the anode rod is used up and the tank itself is starting to corrode. A plumber can check the anode and tell you if the tank has years left or months.

How old is it?

The serial number on the rating label usually holds the manufacture date. Our label guide shows where to look. Many tanks last around eight to twelve years, so a heater in that range with any warning signs is worth planning to replace.

Tank or tankless

A tankless heater saves space and doesn't run out during back-to-back showers, but it may need a larger gas line or venting changes. A standard tank is simpler to swap. The plumber can explain what your house would need for each option.

What to tell the plumber

Gas or electric, the tank size from the label, its age and what you're noticing. Send a request and a plumber will get in touch.

Frequently asked questions

Is a leaking water heater dangerous?: A leaking tank isn't usually dangerous on its own, but water near a gas burner or electrical parts should be dealt with quickly. Shut off the cold supply and the power or gas until it's checked.
Should I drain my water heater every year?: Flushing a few gallons from the drain valve once or twice a year helps remove sediment. If the valve hasn't been opened in years, a plumber can do it so the old valve doesn't start leaking.

Other plumbing services

Emergency PlumbingBurst lines, backups and leaks that won't wait until Monday.Frozen Pipe RepairThawing and repairing lines that freeze in crawl spaces and garages.Drain CleaningKitchen, bath, laundry and main lines cleared and checked.Sewer & Septic LinesMain line repairs in town and drain lines to septic systems outside it.Well & Pressure Tank ServicePressure switches, tanks and pump problems on rural water systems.Outdoor & Irrigation PlumbingHose bibs, yard lines, backflow assemblies and irrigation supply repairs.Fixture Repair & RemodelsFaucets, toilets, showers and the plumbing behind a remodel.

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Repairs, renovations and new projects. Tell us what you need and we'll pass it straight to a plumber, who will call you to go over the job and give you a quote.

Plumbing repairs, renovations and new projects
Yakima and the Upper Valley towns
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