Water Heater Leaked in Basement? Here's the Next Steps

Woke up to water on the basement floor? That sudden, cold puddle is often your first clue the water heater let go. It’s one of the most common calls we get—especially in older homes around Grove City and Columbus.

When a water heater leaks, time matters. Here's what you need to do right now.

Step 1: Cut the Power or Gas

• Electric water heater: Turn off the breaker in your electrical panel.

• Gas water heater: Turn the thermostat to the “off” position and shut off the gas valve.

Safety first. Don’t walk into standing water if you’re unsure about power hazards.

Step 2: Stop the Water Flow

• Find the cold water shut-off valve on top of the tank and turn it clockwise.

• If the valve’s stuck or the pipe burst, you may need to shut off the main water supply.

This stops the tank from refilling and spilling more water onto your floor.

Step 3: Drain the Tank (If Safe)

Use a garden hose to drain the tank through the bottom valve. Run it to a floor drain or outside. Be careful—the water can still be hot.

If you’re unsure or the leak is near electrical components, skip this step and wait for a pro.

Step 4: Document the Damage

Take photos of everything—the leak, the water, the affected belongings. This will help with insurance. If your water heater is older, the tank might be rusted through, and a full replacement may be needed.

Step 5: Start Water Removal and Drying

If there’s more than a few gallons, you’re going to need help fast.

At Total Home Water Restoration, we:

• Use truck-mounted pumps to remove standing water

• Set up professional drying equipment to prevent mold

• Inspect for hidden damage behind walls or under flooring

• Handle full repairs, including drywall, baseboards, and flooring

We follow IICRC S500 standards for water damage restoration.

Step 6: Check for Mold

A damp basement is mold’s favorite place. If the leak sat for more than 24–48 hours, we’ll inspect and treat any mold growth following IICRC S520 protocols.

Step 7: Replace the Water Heater

If the tank failed, it’s likely beyond repair. We'll guide you through picking the right replacement and coordinate safe, code-compliant installation. And if your drywall, flooring, or insulation needs replaced, we’ve got you covered.

Common Causes of Water Heater Leaks

• Internal tank corrosion

• Rusted drain valve

• Failed temperature and pressure relief valve

• Loose connections

Most water heaters only last 8–12 years. If yours is near the end of that range, a leak might be the first and final warning sign.

Need Help Now?

If your basement’s wet and your water heater’s the culprit, don’t wait.

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

We serve Grove City, Columbus, Hilliard, Dublin, Reynoldsburg, and beyond. We’ll treat your home like it’s our own.