Is my water heater about to go?

[AARleov]

I noticed a small drop from the spigot valve at the bottom of my water heater. I estimate it almost 17 years old. It's a gas A.O. Smith unit serial number ME99-0036663-242. I know it needs to be replaced based on the age alone but is this leak an indication that it's failing now and my basement is about to flood? Thanks

 

[Mr_David]

No. Just screw on a cap made for a hose bid and go relax.
average age of a water heater is 8-10yrs. 17 is pretty old.
does it rumble when you turn a fixture on.
They always leak at the most inconvenient times, Like Friday night.
And they all eventually leak. Bests to change it out on your terms