Will pilot light on hot water heater burn even if tank is dry?

yes, letting the pilot go on an empty water heater will burn it. same as leaving an empty pot on a stove with the burner on.

in general, turning of the water supply to the heater doesnt empty it, so the water will just sit in the tank until a faucet is turned on. its a closed-system. unless the leak is between the shut-off valve and the tank (and I dont see how, since there should be a shut-off valve at the tank itself)

if you have a water leak under a slab, you have much more to worry about that the water heater though.

like foundation cracks due to hydrostatic pressure and possible shifting, as well as seepage.

there is a knob on the front and it has a high, low, pilot and maybe a vacation setting. If your gas bill is higher it tells me you might have a leaky water heater or a hot water line is leaking. you can also shut off the water to the tank by turning the valve at the top of the tank.

Yes it will if it is not turned off. In fact, the burner will ignite also based on the setting of the thermostat. Turn off the water at the top of the water heater instead of the main shut off and the tank should hold water during shut downs and you will avoid damage to you water heater.

all gas heater r required to have a shut off on the gas line to the appliance.....just turn the valve off on the gas and the pilot will go out...and yes u will burn the element up and maybe even the heater if left on with no water......

lic. gen. contractor

turn to pilot, or leave as it is, water is not going to drain out even if it has back siphonage