Dealing with a water heater leak in Grove City or Columbus? Learn what to do immediately, how to limit damage, and when to call a pro. Total Home Water Restoration can help.

Water Heater Leak? Here’s What to Do Before It Gets Worse

Appliance Leak & Overflow Cleanup
January 28, 2026•2 min read

Water Heater Leak? Here’s What to Do Before It Gets Worse

If you just found water pooling around your hot water heater, don’t wait. Even a small leak can ruin drywall, flooring, or worse—lead to hidden mold growth behind the walls. I’ve seen it too many times in homes across Grove City, Hilliard, and Columbus.

Here’s what to do right now.

Step 1: Shut Off Water and Power

Turn off the water.
Look for the cold water shutoff valve at the top of the tank and twist it clockwise until it stops.

Turn off the power.
If you’ve got an electric water heater, switch off the breaker. If it’s gas, set the dial to “off.” Never work around a leaking heater with live power running.

Step 2: Check Where It’s Leaking

Some leaks are simple—like a loose drain valve. Others are a sign your tank is rusted through.

Check:

  • The cold water inlet and hot water outlet

  • The pressure relief valve

  • The drain valve at the bottom

  • The base of the tank (a rusty bottom usually means it’s time to replace the unit)

If the leak is from the bottom or the tank wall, there’s no easy fix. You’ll need a new heater—and fast.

Step 3: Remove Standing Water

The longer water sits, the more it soaks in. Use towels or a wet/dry vac to get water off the floor fast. If you’ve got carpet or laminate nearby, water may have already seeped under it.

Step 4: Call a Professional for Cleanup

Water damage cleanup isn’t just about drying things out—it’s about doing it right the first time. Here’s what we check for at Total Home Water Restoration:

  • Hidden moisture in drywall, baseboards, or subflooring

  • Signs of early mold growth (especially inside wall cavities)

  • Water damage to adjacent rooms, stairs, or ceilings below

We use thermal cameras, moisture meters, and follow the IICRC S500 standard for water restoration.

We also work directly with your insurance company to help you get repairs covered.

When Mold Follows a Water Heater Leak

If a leak goes unnoticed for more than 24–48 hours, mold can start to grow behind the walls or under the floor. I’ve personally seen this in homes where the heater is tucked away in a closet or finished basement.

We’re certified in mold remediation too—and we fix the root of the issue, not just the surface.

Serving Grove City and the Greater Columbus Area

We’ve helped homeowners in:

  • Grove City

  • Hilliard

  • Galloway

  • Westerville

  • Dublin

  • Worthington

  • New Albany

  • Upper Arlington

  • Reynoldsburg

  • Pickerington

If you’re dealing with a water heater leak, we’re ready to help—24/7 emergency response.

Call Now Before the Damage Gets Worse

Total Home Water Restoration
📍 4141 Hoover Rd, Grove City, OH 43123
📞 380-246-1837

We fix it like it’s our own home.

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