Can leaking water heaters be repaired?

Maintenance reminders for Boulder homes

Small drips turn into big messes. Use this friendly checklist to prevent a leaking water heater and catch issues early. Short steps. Colorado practical. Boulder tested.

If you want a local pro to handle it, Mesa Plumbing has you covered. Call (720) 680 2303 or visit contact us.

Monthly quick look

• Walk by the water heater and check for damp spots around the base
• Run your hand along the hot and cold pipes for moisture
• Listen for hissing or sizzling that hints at a hidden leak
• Make sure the temperature setting is steady and not cranked up
•  

After a cold snap

• Inspect joints and flex connectors on top of the tank
• Look for new rust streaks on the jacket
• Check the expansion tank. If it feels empty or waterlogged, it needs service
•  

Quarterly simple care

• Test the temperature and pressure relief valve by lifting the lever for a second, then release
• Peek at the drain valve near the bottom. If you see beads of water, note it for service
• Vacuum dust from around the burner area on gas models to keep combustion clean
•  

Twice a year in Colorado

• Drain a gallon from the tank to flush sediment. Use a small bucket at the drain valve
• Inspect the discharge pipe from the relief valve for drip marks
• Check the shutoff valve on the cold inlet. A valve that sticks can fail when you need it most
•  

Annual maintenance musts

• Full flush to reduce sediment that causes a water heater leak
• Inspect or replace the anode rod to slow corrosion in our mineral rich water
• Verify system pressure and the condition of the expansion tank
• Confirm venting and combustion air on gas models for safe operation
•  

Signs a leak is starting

• A damp ring around the base of the tank
• Drips from the relief valve discharge pipe
• Moisture at the drain valve threads
• Rust freckles on the jacket or fittings
• Hot water that runs out faster than usual
•  

What to do if you see a leak

• Turn off power at the breaker for electric. Set the gas control to pilot for gas
• Close the cold water supply valve on top of the heater
• Dry the area and watch for fresh moisture so you can spot the source
• Call Mesa Plumbing for fast help in Boulder and nearby towns
•  

Boulder specific tips

• Our hard water speeds up corrosion. Stay on that anode rod schedule
• Winter swings add stress to fittings. Do the cold snap check after deep freezes
• Consider a leak pan with a drain or a smart leak sensor in basements and crawl spaces
•  

When repair makes sense

• Loose flex connectors or weeping fittings
• Drippy relief valve that tests faulty
• Seeping plastic drain valve that needs a metal replacement
•  

When replacement is the safe move

• Water coming from under the tank jacket
• Visible rust at seams or the base
• The unit is older and has needed repeated repairs
•  

Tools to keep on hand

• Small adjustable wrench
• Bucket and old towels
• Flashlight
• Smart leak sensor if you travel often

Frequently Asked Questions