Tank water heaters hold 40 to 80 gallons of water, and when one fails it keeps refilling until the water is shut off. Leaks usually start at the drain valve, the pressure relief valve or the supply connections, but an old tank can also rust through and let go all at once.
If your water heater is leaking in Ocala, FL, shut off the water and power, then call 24/7. Our team responds immediately for extraction and drying.
Call (352) 555-0147Signs your water heater is leaking
- Water pooling around the base of the tank
- Rust stains or corrosion on the tank or fittings
- Dripping from the pressure relief valve or pipe
- Wet drywall or baseboards in the closet or next room
- Water in a drain pan that keeps filling
- Rumbling noises and rusty hot water
Why water heaters leak
Most tank water heaters last around 8 to 12 years. Sediment builds up at the bottom, the tank corrodes from the inside and eventually it leaks. Florida’s hard water speeds up sediment buildup.
Many Ocala homes have the water heater in the garage, an interior closet or a utility room. When it sits in an interior closet, a leak quickly reaches carpet, hallways and bedroom walls.
Water heater leak cleanup
- Shut-off and replacement of the failed tank by a plumber.
- Water extraction from the closet, garage and nearby rooms.
- Removal of wet drywall at the base of walls and swollen baseboards.
- Drying of walls, flooring and cabinets.
- Mold check inside closets and wall cavities.
- Repairs and photos for your insurance claim.
Ask the crew to explain what needs to be removed and why, and get the scope and price in writing before work starts.
What to do right now
- Turn off the cold-water valve on top of the tank.
- Turn off power (electric) or set the gas valve to off or pilot.
- Do not touch the tank if it is still hot.
- Move stored items away from the water.
- Take photos of the tank label and the damage.
- Call a plumber for the tank and us for the water damage.
For a full checklist, read what to do after water damage.
Tankless and attic units
Tankless water heaters hold far less water, but a failed connection can still leak until the water is shut off. Units in attics are the most dangerous because water ends up in the ceiling below. Read about ceiling leak water damage.
Water Heater Leak Cleanup across Ocala and Marion County
We cover every Ocala ZIP code from 34470 to 34482, including Downtown Ocala, the Historic District, Paddock Park, the SR 200 corridor and On Top of the World, plus nearby Silver Springs, Silver Springs Shores, Belleview, Marion Oaks, Summerfield, Dunnellon, Reddick and Anthony.
Related water damage services
Not sure what caused the damage? See all water damage services, read the FAQ or learn about insurance claims.