Afternoon, Kellie...
If you're opening the thermostat or element panels -- TURN OFF THE POWER FIRST. It's probably on a 220V circuit breaker.
The first thing I would do is check with AO Smith to determine the age of the water heater.
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. You should have a panel on the side that identifies the make and model with serial number. Have that handy when you contact AO Smith. If it's an old hot water heater then your best bet is to replace it. If you have a pin hole leak somewhere, it's corroding from the inside, the problem will simply get worse and you'll find a floor full of water one day and the heater will continue to try to fill, continuing to empty water into your house.
My suggestion is to have a qualified person check out the problem. I'd be willing to bet you're due a new water heater. There is usually a sacrificial anode inside the water heater and when that dissolves pin- hole leaks can form from the inside.
Good Luck...