I just noticed I didn’t have very hot water in the house and came out to the garage and noticed water leaking down my hot water circulator. I unplugged it and closed the two valves but water continued to leak. After inspecting closer it turns out there’s a pin sized hole in the water heater connector. I’ve turned the lower valve clockwise until it doesn’t turn anymore but water still seems to be leaking out. Does it take it a while to stop or would there be anything else possibly wrong?

I believe this is just for hot water circulation, any issues waiting for a plumber that’s not after hours rates to get it fixed?

I’ve drained the water that collected under the water heater, can I reignite it?