A leaking water heater can cause significant water damage if left unaddressed — warped flooring, mold growth, and structural damage to your basement or utility room. STL Plumbing Pros identifies the leak source quickly and either repairs the component or replaces the unit if the tank itself has failed. For active flooding, our emergency plumbing service provides priority response. Same-day response for active leaks.
Where Is the Leak Coming From?
T&P Relief Valve (Side)
The temperature and pressure relief valve opens when tank pressure is too high. If it's dripping continuously, the valve may be faulty or the water pressure may be excessive.
Supply Connections (Top)
Leaks at the cold water inlet or hot water outlet connections. Often just needs tightening or new fittings — a straightforward repair.
Drain Valve (Bottom Front)
The drain spigot at the bottom of the tank may drip if it's not fully closed or the washer has deteriorated. Simple valve replacement.
Tank Body (Bottom)
Water seeping from the bottom seam or tank wall indicates internal corrosion. The tank cannot be patched — replacement is required.
What to Do Right Now
Turn off the gas or flip the circuit breaker for the water heater.
Close the cold water supply valve above the water heater if the leak is significant.
Place towels or a bucket to contain the water and prevent floor damage.
Do NOT attempt to move a full water heater — a 50-gallon tank weighs over 400 lbs when full.
Call us for same-day diagnosis and repair or replacement.
Our Process
Identify the Source
We trace the leak to its exact origin — valve, connection, or tank body. This determines whether repair or replacement is needed.
Repair or Replace
Valve and connection leaks are repaired on the spot. Tank body leaks require replacement — we can often do this same-day.
Prevent Future Issues
We check the anode rod condition, test the T&P valve, and recommend maintenance to extend the life of your new or repaired unit.
Leak Repair Pricing
| Repair | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| T&P relief valve replacement | $125–$225 | Leaking from the overflow pipe — valve replacement. |
| Drain valve replacement | $100–$200 | Leaking from the drain spigot at the bottom. |
| Supply line connection repair | $75–$175 | Tighten or replace leaking supply connections. |
| Water heater replacement (leaking tank) | $1,200–$2,400 | Tank corrosion — requires full replacement. |
Why Choose STL Plumbing Pros?
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Priority Response for Active Leaks
Active water heater leaks get same-day priority service to prevent further damage.
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Accurate Source Identification
We pinpoint whether it's a repairable valve/connection or a failed tank before recommending any work.
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Repair or Replace — Your Call
We give you honest options with clear pricing. No pressure to replace when a $150 valve repair will solve the problem.
What Our Customers Say
"Found water under my water heater on a Sunday. They came out same day, found it was the T&P valve — replaced it in 30 minutes. Crisis averted."
"Tank was leaking from the bottom — needed replacement. They had a new one installed the same afternoon. Professional from start to finish."
"Turned out to be just a loose connection at the top. Quick tightening and new fitting — $100 fix. Appreciated the honesty."