Kenmore
Tank Rupture or Drain Valve Leak
Water leaking from the bottom of a Kenmore water heater
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Corroded tank, leaking drain valve, condensation misdiagnosed as leak, failed gasket at element (electric models)
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Turn OFF power or gas and close the cold water supply. Hot water can cause burns.
- Identify source: Dry the area and observe whether water is coming from the drain valve, element gasket, or from under the tank jacket.
- Drain valve leak: If the drain valve drips, attach a hose cap or replace the drain valve. To replace, drain the tank fully, remove the old valve, and install a new one with thread sealant.
- Element gasket leak: On electric models, inspect around the elements. If water seeps from the element opening, drain below that level, remove the element, and replace the gasket (or the entire heating element with gasket).
- Tank leak: If water is seeping from the tank body or from under the insulation with no visible fitting leak, the tank is ruptured. The entire water heater must be replaced.
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Repair Difficulty
Hard
4/5
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