A leak that is originating from the top of a water heater if caught in a timely manner is almost always repairable.
Gas water heater leaking from top.
So let s look at some of the most common reasons your water heater is leaking at the top.
A water heater leaking from the top is preferable to one from the bottom.
However if not fixed promptly these types of leaks can lead to serious and costly damage as water travels down the exterior of your water heater.
However some models have these valves located on the very top of the machine.
Then observe where the water starts to come from.
On the other hand water runs downhill so failure to fix the leak can lead to more serious problems including electrical shorts additional damage to the water heater and the possibility of water damage such as ruined carpeting or drywall.
Using paper towels wipe down the wet areas on the top of your water heater so it s dry.
Rainwater can be blown in from outside.
If your hot water heater is designed like this then this could be a reason your water heater is leaking at the top.
If you have a gas water heater turn off the gas supply.
If you have a gas hot water heater leaking from the top one possibility is related to rain.
Under the right conditions rain drops can enter and come down the vent.
If there is water leaking from the piping attached to the t p relief valve and also from the open end of the pipe there s most likely too much pressure in the water heater or the water is too hot.
Have a professional inspect your tank to determine the issue.
Once you identify that a leak is still currently happening immediately turn off the power source to avoid any electrical issues.
Many water heater tanks have their temperature and pressure relieve valve positioned on the side of the tank.
It s also a less expensive problem.
Rain water when rain water travels down the flue vent pipe of a gas water heater it can collect on the top of your tank.
Frequently when a water heater leaks from the top it s a fixable problem.
This is a common area where water leaks and you ll generally see the leak at the point where the fittings meet the water heater.