Homebuyer spots white buildup by water heater after realtor's moisture meter reads 80+

A homebuyer raised concerns after noticing a white buildup around a basement water heater, especially when a realtor’s moisture meter showed “80+” readings over the affected area. The issue emerged from a Reddit post, where the buyer said the home was finished with carpet in much of the basement, but the patch near the furnace and water heater looked like potential water damage. Commenters offered competing explanations, including leftover residue from a previous heater leak or mineral/salt mess from a water softener. The post also notes the house was built in 1927, widening possible causes such as seepage, condensation, or older residue. The buyer planned additional inspections—general, sewer scope, and foundation—before closing.