How to repair leaking hot water heater?

[sh_g]

 I am needing assistance in repairing my hot water heater as there is some drippage from the lower tube. Unsure if there is a way to seal it?

[DIYGnome]

Hello @sh_g and welcome to the Workshop Community 🖐

The first image provided is a power conduit, the overall condition of the tank implies it's been installed quite some time, when did you last flush the tank of sediment (mineral byproducts of the heating process)?

Sediment gathers on the bottom of the tank and can cause issues with water pressure, purportedly higher running costs & if left unchecked sediment can eventually lead to fractures in the tank casing which will result in seepage (generally from the base of the tank), most people (myself included) don't flush their tanks as often as they should, the link below describes the process. 
 
https://www.anytimehotwater.com.au/hot-water-services/how-to-clean-sediment-from-a-hot-water-heater/



Apart from applying an "as seen on TV" product like stop leak aerosol spray which "may" mask the issue for a time, anything further would require a Licensed Plumber as hot water and electricity is not something to be trifled with, below is a link to a checklist for symptoms of a failing hot water tank. 

https://proximityplumbing.com.au/blogs/burst-hot-water-heater-why-this-happens-and-what-to-do-next/#....



On the whole your hot water tank appears to be seeping from underneath the tank given the extensive dampness of the wooden platform it's sitting on, how much longer the tank will keep functioning is up for debate but I would recommend a prompt inspection by a Licensed Plumber to establish what has failed and what is required to rectify the problem, a weekend without hot water would not be a pleasant experience.

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @sh_g. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about repairing a hot water heater.

As mentioned by @DIYGnome that's a power conduit, so no water should be leaking from it. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix, so I'd recommend calling a hot water heater specialist to come out immediately. In the interim, you should isolate the area to ensure no one enters the vicinity. There is a significant risk of electrocution, so please don't take any risks.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell