Water Heater Leaking: Is It an Emergency?
By JW Moore Plumbing • Updated 2026-09-17
Where the water is coming from tells you whether it's a $100 fix or a new water heater.
Leaking from the top
Loose inlet/outlet fittings or a failed T&P valve. Usually repairable.
Leaking from the T&P valve
The temperature-and-pressure relief valve discharges when pressure is too high. Could be the valve, could be a thermal expansion problem.
Leaking from the bottom or tank
The tank has rusted through. It cannot be repaired and will fail completely — shut off the water and gas or power and arrange replacement.
Shut it off safely
Close the cold-water inlet valve, turn the gas to 'pilot' or flip the breaker, and attach a hose to the drain valve.
Same-day replacement
Most water heater replacements are done in half a day, and we haul the old unit away.
Need a Plumber Now?
JW Moore Plumbing offers water heater replacement & installation across Hawaii — 24/7, same day, flat-rate pricing. Call (888) 480-9811 or book online.