A leaking water heater can be a major inconvenience and cause significant damage to your home. But why is your water heater leaking in the first place? In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of water heater leaks and what you can do to fix them.
Common Causes of Water Heater Leaks
Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve is an important safety feature on your water heater. It is designed to release excess pressure from the tank to prevent it from exploding. If the valve is faulty or damaged, it can cause water to leak from the top of the water heater.
To check if the pressure relief valve is the cause of the leak, place a bucket under the valve and lift the lever. If water continues to leak after releasing the lever, the valve may need to be replaced.
Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
The temperature and pressure relief valve is another safety feature on your water heater. It is responsible for releasing excess pressure and temperature from the tank. If this valve is faulty or damaged, it can cause water to leak from the top of the water heater.
To check if the temperature and pressure relief valve is the cause of the leak, place a bucket under the valve and lift the lever. If water continues to leak after releasing the lever, the valve may need to be replaced.
Drain Valve
The drain valve is located at the bottom of the water heater and is used to drain the tank for maintenance or repairs. If the drain valve is loose or damaged, it can cause water to leak from the bottom of the water heater.
To check if the drain valve is the cause of the leak, tighten it with a wrench. If the leak persists, the valve may need to be replaced.
Corrosion
Over time, the inside of your water heater tank can corrode, causing small holes to form. This can lead to water leaking from the bottom of the tank. Corrosion is often caused by sediment buildup in the tank, which can be prevented by regularly flushing the tank.
If your water heater is leaking due to corrosion, it may need to be replaced. It is important to address this issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home.
Loose Connections
The connections on your water heater, such as the inlet and outlet pipes, can become loose over time. This can cause water to leak from the top of the water heater. To fix this issue, simply tighten the connections with a wrench.
Age of the Water Heater
As water heaters age, they become more prone to leaks. If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it. Regular maintenance and flushing can help extend the lifespan of your water heater, but eventually, it will need to be replaced. When it comes time to replace your water heater it is best to contact a professional plumbing service such as Mach 1 Plumbing.
What to Do When Your Water Heater Leaks
If you notice a leak from your water heater, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage to your home. Here are the steps you should take:
Turn Off the Power
If you have an electric water heater, turn off the power at the circuit breaker. If you have a gas water heater, turn off the gas supply.
Shut Off the Water Supply
Locate the cold water supply valve on your water heater and turn it off. This will stop the flow of water into the tank.
Drain the Tank
Place a bucket under the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater and open the valve to drain the tank. Be careful as the water may be hot. Once the tank is drained, close the valve.
Determine the Cause of the Leak
Use the information above to determine the cause of the leak. If you are unsure, it is best to call a professional plumber for assistance.
Fix the Issue
If the cause of the leak is a faulty valve or loose connection, you may be able to fix it yourself. However, if the issue is more serious, such as corrosion or a damaged tank, it is best to call a professional plumber for repairs or replacement.
Preventing Water Heater Leaks
While some causes of water heater leaks are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to prevent them from happening.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to preventing water heater leaks. This includes flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup, checking and replacing faulty valves, and inspecting connections for any signs of wear or damage.
Replace Old Water Heaters
As mentioned earlier, water heaters over 10 years old are more prone to leaks. Consider replacing your water heater before it reaches this age to prevent potential leaks and damage to your home. When it is time to replace your water heater it’s best to call a professional plumbing company like Mach 1 to do the install.
Install a Water Heater Pan
A water heater pan is a small tray that sits under your water heater and collects any water that may leak from the tank. This can help prevent damage to your home and give you an early warning sign of a leak.
A leaking water heater can be a major inconvenience, but it is important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home. By understanding the common causes of water heater leaks and taking preventative measures, you can keep your water heater running smoothly and avoid any unexpected leaks. If you are unsure of how to fix a leak or are experiencing a more serious issue, it is always best to call a professional plumber for assistance.
Mach 1 Plumbing provides Professional plumbing services to the Roseville, Rocklin, Sacramento and surrounding areas. We specialize in plumbing repairs, maintenance, new installation, drain cleaning, water heaters and emergency plumbing.