Modern water heaters include controls designed to manage temperature and pressure. Serious failures are uncommon, but a leaking tank, damaged relief piping or repeated overheating should never be ignored.
Look for visible changes
Water around the base, corrosion at fittings, a discharge pipe that keeps running, or a heater that repeatedly shuts itself down are reasons to arrange an assessment. Do not cap or plug a temperature-and-pressure relief valve or its discharge pipe. That valve is a safety device.
If you smell gas, leave the area and call FortisBC’s emergency line from outside. If water is leaking near electrical equipment, keep clear of the area.
Get the cause checked
The practical next step is to identify a concerning symptom early and have the appliance assessed. Our water-heater service can explain what needs repair or replacement.
Keep safety devices unobstructed
The temperature-and-pressure relief valve and its discharge arrangement are part of the heater’s protection. Do not plug a dripping discharge line or assume repeated discharge is normal. It may indicate a problem that needs a qualified assessment. Keep the area around the heater accessible so leaks, corrosion and unusual operation can be noticed.
If water is actively spreading, use a water shutoff only if you can reach it safely. Do not step into standing water near electrical equipment to operate a switch. Our plumbing emergency guide gives a calm order of action for active water problems. When you call, describe whether the leak is from the tank body, a connection or the relief discharge; a photo can help if it is safe to take one.