Fixing a leaking water tank is one of the biggest hassles a homeowner can face. If you have stepped into your storage unit or your basement and found water around your water heater, don’t panic. Just because there is water under the water heater tank doesn’t mean that you have to replace the entire system. There are several causes for a leaky water heater tank that you can fix very easily without needing to replace the unit.
Check the temperature pressure relief valve, which releases water when too much pressure builds up in your tank. The excessive pressure can be caused by several things, including having your water temperature set too high. You can find the TPRV at the top of the unit with a pipe coming off to the side of the water heater and extending down to the base of the unit. If water is leaking from the TPRV, consult your owner's manual as to how to adjust. Also make sure that the TPRV is secured properly.
Look over the water heater tank. Older water heaters can become corroded on the inside and could be leaking water. If you find water coming out of the tank itself, you will need to replace the whole unit.