Water leaks from the top of a Richmond tank-type water heater.

Safety first: Turn OFF power or gas and close the cold water supply valve. Allow the tank to cool before working near hot pipes.

• Dry and inspect: Wipe the top of the heater dry and observe where water first appears—around nipples, anode, or seams.
• Tighten fittings: Use a pipe wrench to snug hot and cold nipples and the anode rod. Do not overtighten to the point of damaging threads.
• Reseal if needed: If a nipple or anode continues to leak, drain the tank below that level, remove the fitting, apply new pipe thread sealant or Teflon tape, and reinstall.
• Tank seam leak: If water seeps from the tank jacket or weld seam, the glass-lined tank is compromised and the heater must be replaced.