Water heater leaks from the top around piping connections.

Safety: Turn off power or gas and close the cold water supply. Relieve pressure at a hot faucet.

• 1. Dry and inspect: Dry the top of the heater and observe where water reappears.
• 2. Tighten fittings: Carefully tighten threaded nipples and flex connectors. Do not overtighten plastic-lined nipples.
• 3. Replace leaking parts: If a flex connector or dielectric union is leaking, remove and replace using new Teflon tape and/or pipe dope.
• 4. Check for tank seam leak: If water seeps from under the top cover or from the tank seam, the tank is likely failed and the heater must be replaced.