Water Heater: Why is there water in my water heater's drain pan?
When you see water in the water heater drain pan, check for leaks at the water pipe fittings. Tighten the water pipe connections if necessary. Check the drain valve and temperature-pressure relief valve for leaks. Replace the drain valve or relief valve if they leak.
For an electric water heater, check the heating elements for leaks when you see the water heater drain pan full of water. Tighten an element if it's loose. Replace a heating element if damaged.
A cracked or broken tank will cause water to leak into the water heater drain pan. Don't attempt to repair a leak in the tank. Instead, replace the water heater if the tank leaks.
THESE REPAIRS MAY HELP SOLVE YOUR WATER HEATER PROBLEM
Replace the water heater drain valve
The drain valve threads into the bottom side of the tank and is opened to drain and flush out sediment from inside the tank. Replace the drain valve if it leaks or won't open to drain the tank.
Water heater drain valve
How to replace a water heater drain valve
If your water heater is leaking from the drain valve, follow the 6 quick steps in this DIY repair guide and video to replace the drain valve.
Replace the water heater temperature-pressure relief valve
The temperature-pressure (T&P) relief valve is a safety device that automatically opens to discharge hot water in the event of excessive temperature and/or pressure inside the tank. Replace the T&P valve if it leaks or malfunctions.
Water heater temperature-pressure relief valve
How to replace a water heater temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve
If a water heater's temperature and pressure relief valve opens and releases hot water even though the water heater isn't overheating, the relief valve could be damaged. This repair guide and video shows you step by step how to replace the T&P relief valve.
Replace the water heater heating element
The heating element is the heat source inside an electric water heater. It extends directly into the tank, where it radiates heat energy to the water around it. If the heating element is not heating when activated, replace the heating element.
Water heater heating element
How to replace a water heater element
If your electric water heater runs out of hot water quickly, or if the water isn't as hot as it should be, the heating element could be the problem. This step-by-step repair guide and video show how to replace a water heater heating element.
Symptoms common to all water heaters
Articles and videos common to all water heaters
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