Preserve the location
Take photographs from a safe position showing the first wet point, valve, and water path. Note whether it leaks continuously or after heating or water use.
Do not open fittings or touch wet electrical parts. Tell the installer if water is spreading, reaching wiring, or damaging the home so immediate safety and isolation can be addressed.
Keep the installation invoice, exact model and serial number, and the date the leak began.
Distinguish the connections
A. O. Smith's leak bulletin separates drain-valve leaks from piping, element-gasket, and tank leaks. Water near a valve does not identify which connection failed. A. O. Smith leak guidance.
Ask the installer to show whether the water originates from the valve, its threaded attachment, adjacent metal, or another location. Request the relevant manufacturer repair procedure and approved parts.
Do not apply sealant externally, use a longer wrench, or overtighten the connection. Have qualified service assess the fitting and surrounding condition.
Clarify correction and coverage
Ask whether the proposed work is installation correction, a manufacturer parts claim, paid service, or a combination. Request applicable parts and labor terms and any charge before authorization.
Warranty eligibility depends on the actual product and finding. A new purchase does not automatically make every related charge covered.
If replacement is proposed, request the tank or connection finding that makes a component repair unsuitable. If a repair is proposed, ask how the provider will confirm the leak is corrected under appropriate operating conditions.
Plan for continued leaking
Request equipment-specific shutdown and water-isolation direction if the leak cannot wait. Do not operate unknown valves or approach unsafe electrical access.
Your next step is to send the installer the photographs and installation record and request a documented correction. Keep the final leak finding and verification with the new heater's service history.