Water heater leaks from bottom of Ariston storage tank.

Safety first: Turn off power at the breaker and close the cold water supply valve. Allow the water to cool before handling.

• Confirm leak source: Remove the lower cover and inspect. If water is seeping from the tank body (not from fittings or drain valve), the inner tank is compromised.
• Check fittings: Rule out leaks from the drain valve, element flange, or temperature/pressure relief valve connections by drying and observing while briefly opening the supply.
• Relieve pressure: Open a hot tap to relieve pressure, then attach a hose to the drain valve and drain the tank to a safe location.
• Do not attempt to weld or patch: Internal tank ruptures are not safely repairable.

The only reliable solution is full replacement of the water heater. When installing a new Ariston tank, ensure a correctly sized expansion vessel, pressure reducing valve (if needed), and a new magnesium anode rod are fitted and maintained.