What it usually is
A drip at a fitting or the relief valve can sometimes be repaired. Water coming from the bottom of the tank usually means the tank itself has failed and needs replacing.
What to do first
Shut off the cold water supply to the tank. For electric units, switch off the breaker; for gas, turn the gas valve to off. Send a photo of the tank and its label.
The flat rate that covers it
- Water heater install, 40–50 gal tank (your unit): $500 labor
- Diagnosis / service call (plumbing or electrical): $79
Hilltop is an older Tacoma neighborhood of early and mid-1900s homes, small apartment buildings and newer infill. In Hilltop, a mix of old and new work on the same street means supply and drain pipe can be very different from one house to the next.
Flat rates for Hilltop
Our flat rates. The price you see is the price, confirmed before any work starts. No service-call fee when we do the work.
* Published Seattle-area and Washington cost guides, 2026. Ranges shown only where a published range exists. The water heater range includes the unit; our $500 is labor only. Prices are for typical, accessible conditions; anything unusual is quoted and confirmed before work starts.
Tell Doug what is wrong
Name, number and a line about the problem. You get the flat price before anyone knocks. Or call or text (253) 349-2907, or book now and see your exact price.
Related problems in Hilltop
- Garbage disposal humming
- Outlet not working
- Breaker keeps tripping
- Ceiling fan wobbles
- Faucet dripping
- Low water pressure
Water heater install in Hilltop · All services in Hilltop · Full pricing