We have a state select water heater. The tray that it sits in is half full of water. So the pvc pipe that drains the water is constantly dripping. I am afraid the tank inside has a hole in it and will become much much worse. Is this a common problem, and does anyone have any advice?

Hi loosehead

This PVC pipe that is "contantly dripping" should be connected to a temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve) on the top or the side of the water heater and it sounds like the T&P valve is defective and simply needs to be replaced. The T&P valve will have a little metal lever on top of it and if the pipe is connected to that, like I said, it just needs to be replaced and you should be all set.

If the PVC pipe really connects to the drain at the front (or side) bottom of the heater post back and we can discuss this more, OK?

Mark

Let's do some checking. I assume the leak isn't from the drain valve.
Shut the power off, if electric, and open up both inspection plates, Feel around and tell me where you find moisture. Back to you, Tom

Tom, I think the poster does mean the drain tap at the bottom of the tank. " pvc pipe that drains the water" When I run into thios and tightening does stop the issue I install a $1.55 garden hose cap. Brass Hose Cap (http://www.mistcooling.com/hose-cap.html?gclid=CPOFj8u9rL8CFQQPaQodArAASA)

Sorry Bob but I read it differently.
The tray that it sits in is half full of water. So the pvc pipe that drains the water is constantly dripping
This sounds like a internal leak that leaks into the overflow pan that has a 3/4" PVC drain line. We install a overflow pan and drain line when the customer or contractor requests it. Regards, Tom

The tray that it sits in is half full of water. So the pvc pipe that drains the water is constantly dripping. Yuip, with a reread and placing a comma where the period is in this quote, I also see it as being a leaky water heater.