You nailed it with the paper towel trick—simple but effective. I can’t tell you how many times folks panic over a little moisture, only to find out it’s just the tank sweating it out on a humid day. That said, I’m always a bit skeptical when people chalk it up to condensation without checking the pressure relief valve or fittings. Those sneaky drips can do some real damage if you ignore them. Your neighbor’s story is classic—sometimes it’s the obvious stuff we overlook. Trust your gut, but don’t skip the basics.
Totally agree—condensation gets blamed for way too much. Quick check with a paper towel is smart, but yeah, I’ve seen tiny leaks from the pressure relief valve turn into a mess under the tank. It’s wild how something that looks harmless can end up rotting out the floor if you’re not careful. I always give the fittings a once-over, even if it seems like “just sweat.” Better safe than sorry, right?
Yeah, I hear you—condensation gets a bad rap, but it’s usually not the real culprit. I’ve seen folks ignore a slow drip from the T&P valve for months, then wonder why their subfloor’s mushy. Quick tip: if you spot moisture, check the valve and the drain pan, not just the fittings. Sometimes it’s just a loose connection, but sometimes it’s a sign the valve’s shot. Don’t trust “just sweat” unless you’re 100% sure. Water’s sneaky like that...
Had a job last winter where the homeowner swore it was just “normal condensation” under their water heater. Turned out the T&P valve was barely dripping, but over a few months, it soaked right through the pan and into the subfloor. By the time I got there, the floor felt like a sponge.
Here’s how I usually check:
1. Wipe everything dry, then watch for fresh moisture—sometimes it’s obvious, sometimes not.
2. If the T&P valve is wet, I’ll lift the test lever for a second to flush it. If it keeps dripping after that, it’s probably time to replace it.
3. Don’t forget to check the drain pan and the pipe leading outside (if you have one). Sometimes those pipes get clogged and back up, making it look like a bigger leak than it is.
Honestly, “just sweat” is rare unless you’ve got a cold basement and hot water. Most of the time, if you see water, something’s up. Water heaters don’t forgive neglect... they just quietly ruin your floor.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually seen “just sweat” a few times—especially in older houses with stone basements.
Sometimes it’s just crazy humidity and cold pipes. I usually tape a paper towel to the tank overnight—if it’s soaked but the floor’s dry, it’s probably condensation. Not saying leaks aren’t common, but I wouldn’t rule out sweat right away.Honestly, “just sweat” is rare unless you’ve got a cold basement and hot water.
