If your water heater is leaking, you've got a major issue on your hands. Sure, you won't be able to enjoy your long, hot showers, but the likelihood of substantial water damage to your home is also elevated. Ensure you know what to do if you're faced with this scenario.   Shut Down the Power Supply Water and electricity do not mix and can lead to serious injuries. Since you will need to access the area near the water heater, an important part of protecting your safety is turning off the power supply.