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
Tacoma is a port city with older Victorian and Craftsman neighborhoods, plus waterfront and industrial areas. Tacoma's older neighborhoods have homes from a long span of eras, so the first thing we look at is what pipe is actually behind the wall.
Flat rates for Tacoma
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 Tacoma
- Smart thermostat install
- Toilet overflowing
- No hot water
- Clogged drain
- Garbage disposal humming
- Outlet not working
Water heater install in Tacoma · All services in Tacoma · Full pricing