- 1). Check the breaker for the hot water tank in your circuit pannel. If it has flipped, flip it back.
- 2). Flip the circuit breaker to off for the hot water heater. Then push the reset button underneath your hot water tank.
- 3). Check the heating element for limestone buildup. If it has any, clean it off. Each water heater is different, so follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- 4). Turn the temperature setting down for several hours and see if the dripping stops. Your tank may be releasing pressure. If the dripping does not stop, call the manufacturer or a repair person.
- 5). Check the pressure release valve for buildup. Only test the valve if a drain pipe is connected to it because the pipe keeps very hot water from spraying everywhere. Test the pressure release valve while the heater is on. Put a bucket under the drain pipe to catch any water. Then slightly lift the small lever on the release valve. If water comes out, it is fine. If no water comes out, it may be clogged. Call a repair person right away because the pressure release mechanism keeps the water heater from exploding (see Reference 2).
- 6). Turn the temperature setting up a little bit if the water seems cooler in winter. In cold weather the ground water is colder to start with, so it takes longer to heat water. As hot water goes out, cold water comes in, cooling the water in the tank.
- 7). Drain your tank. Sediment can build up and clog the exit pipe and disable the heating element. Before draining the tank, turn off the power to the water heater at the circuit panel. Attach a hose to the drain spout, and put the end of the hose by a drain. Close the shutoff valve to the water supply for the tank. Open the pressure valve. Then open the drain valve. Drain until water runs clear. Close the drain valve and pressure valve and open the water supply. Do not turn on the power to the water heater until the tank is full again (see Reference 1).
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