Ruud gas or electric water heater leaks water from the base or around fittings.

Safety first: Turn OFF power (electric) or set gas control to OFF (gas). Close the cold water supply valve. Hot water can cause burns.

• Step 1 – Identify leak source: Dry the area and observe where water first appears: at fittings on top, around the T&P valve, at the drain valve, or from the tank body.
• Step 2 – Tighten or reseal fittings: For leaks at hot/cold nipples, carefully tighten the fittings. If still leaking, drain below the fitting and remove, then reinstall with new Teflon tape and pipe dope.
• Step 3 – Replace drain valve: If the plastic drain valve drips, cap it temporarily or replace it with a new brass drain valve compatible with Ruud tanks.
• Step 4 – Check T&P valve: If water is discharging from the T&P valve, see the dedicated T&P fault entry; do not plug or cap this valve.
• Step 5 – Tank leak: If water seeps from the tank body or insulation, the glass-lined tank has failed. The only safe repair is full water heater replacement.