Notice the signs
Observe
From safety, note whether moisture appears during heating, recovery, fixture use, or idle periods; record temperature, pressure clues, first high wet point, model label, drain route, and water damage below.
Note 40
Place the condition before choosing the work
Protect the room
Safety line
Keep clear of hot discharge, gas odor, combustion issues, wet wiring, and a visibly unstable vessel. Do not cap a relief pipe, close an unknown valve, drain the tank, or open a panel without qualified direction.
Material note
Local boundary
Private repair can overlap gas, electrical, permit, cleanup, and finish responsibilities. A provider should not present public-water status or a TTHM notice as proof that the heater must be replaced.
Service flow
Written scope
The written decision should compare the confirmed leaking component with repair, containment, and full replacement; include shutoff, drain-down, access, code items, expansion, vent or power, permits, disposal, and surfaces.
Close the loop
Verification
After work, observe a complete heat and recovery cycle, inspect every disturbed joint and discharge path, confirm expected fixture temperature, and document any damp material or temporary connection still awaiting correction.
Current primary source