Water heater failures are one of the most common causes of water damage in Colorado Springs homes. A standard 50-gallon water heater holds enough water to cause significant damage — and if the failure goes unnoticed for hours or days, the damage can be catastrophic. Here's what to do.

Immediate Steps When Your Water Heater Leaks

• Turn off the water supply to the water heater (the cold water inlet valve on top)
• Turn off the power — electric: flip the breaker; gas: turn the gas valve to "pilot"
• Call a plumber to assess and replace the water heater
• Call a water damage restoration company if significant water has escaped
• Document all damage with photos and video for your insurance claim

Types of Water Heater Failures

Water heaters fail in several ways: slow drips from the pressure relief valve or drain valve, corrosion leaks from the tank body, and catastrophic tank failure (the "burst" scenario). Slow drips can go unnoticed for months, causing mold and structural damage. Tank failures can release the full 50+ gallons in minutes.

Water Heater Lifespan in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs has moderately hard water, which accelerates sediment buildup and corrosion in water heaters. Standard tank water heaters typically last 8–12 years in Colorado Springs. If your water heater is over 10 years old, consider proactive replacement before failure.