In most cases a build up of sediment is the leading cause of this.
Gas water heater leaking from bottom element.
Turn off the power.
There should be a dedicated gas shut off valve on the gas line leading to the tank.
If you have a leaking gas powered water heater we recommend that you shut off the gas supply before working with the tank.
This drain valve can be capped with a hose cap or you can replace the drain valve completely with a new valve.
A leaking drain valve can be identified by moisture or water dripping either out of the drain opening or around the valve itself.
All water heaters have a drain near the bottom of the unit so that the tank can be emptied before removal or during routine cleaning of the tank itself.
Keep reading to find out how to resolve the leak issue.
See below for a visual illustration of a gas water.
The most likely scenario in this case is that sediment has built up and corroded the bottom of the tank causing a serious problem and the need for an entirely new water heater.
Monitor the valve for leaks.
After draining or flushing a water heater it is common for the drain valve to fail to close completely.
The above parts are generally the only source of leaks on the bottom of your heater unlike leaks on top that can also originate from the water inlet and outlet valves as well as the overflow pipe.
If the leak is coming from the bottom of the tank it is not looking good for you.
Although these are the two most common causes of a leaking water heater they are.
However if you are unsure you may want to consider calling a professional.
If your water heater is leaking water near the control panel of the device then the device is likely leaking fluid around the heating element.
Because of the limited possible causes of the bottom leak it would be.
The heating element will sit in the control panel of the water heater and this panel typically sits underneath a metal cover.
After lowering the temperature turn on the water at the cold water inlet valve and power gas to your water heater.
A leak in the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater is another common issue.
Check to make sure that the bottom valve is fully closed by turning the valve control clockwise.
The rusting process can be slowed by regularly draining and flushing out the water heater but if the bottom is already leaking it s time for a new water heater.
Gas water heater what to do with a leaking hot water heater gas water heater.
Local building codes often do.
Temperature pressure relief valve also referred to as the t p valve.