Why Is My Water Heater Leaking Water?
Your water heater is an important appliance in your home and if it starts to leak water it can cause significant damage. Because you use it virtually every day, it’s important to understand that it will fall victim to wear & tear over time. Learn how to identify the most common causes of water heater leaks, as well as what you should do if your water heater does start to leak. You will also get tips for prevention and find out when it’s time to call in a professional HVAC technician. With these tips, you can get your water heater back on and avoid further damage.
If you do not feel comfortable addressing the issue yourself, it is important to call in a professional HVAC Technician as soon as possible. A leaking water heater can cause extensive damage if not taken care of quickly, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help. At Robert B. Payne, Inc. we are here to help you get your water heater back in working order. Contact us for any questions, problems, or repairs you may have with your water heater. The most common causes of water leaks are tank corrosion, malfunctioning hot and cold water connections, a broken drain valve, and loose gaskets. Sometimes, all you have to do is tighten the loose connections and gaskets to get your water heater back in working order. If corrosion is the cause of your leak, however, it may be time for a new water heater as corrosion can’t always be repaired. Read on for tips on how to fix or prevent your water heater from leaking.
4 Reasons Why Your Hot Water Heater is Leaking Water
1. Malfunctioning Cold And Hot Water Connections
If the hot water or cold water valves that connect to the water heater are loose or damaged, they cause a leak. Check these valves and make sure they are securely connected and that there is no damage to them. You may be able to resolve this problem using a wrench. If your water heater lines are produced from flex pipes, tighten the connections the way you tighten your garden hose. But if they’re made of copper, you’ll need to call a professional to solder them.
2. Loose or Damaged Drain Valve
The drain valve is a fitting placed at the bottom of the water heater and connects the hose to it. If the drain valve is damaged, then the water will start leaking out of it. Check your drain valve for any damage and make sure it is tightened properly. Because it is located near the bottom of your hot water heater, it can cause water to pool from the base which can be wrongly diagnosed as a water tank leak. It can also cause puddles of water near your water heater. To solve this problem, flush the water tank and clean the area around the valve. If this doesn’t work, you’ll have to get a professional to replace the drain valve.
3. Loose Gaskets
Gaskets provide a tight seal around your water heater. They fill in the space between any two parts of the water heater that may be close together. If these gaskets become worn out or loose over time, they can cause leakage. Check the gasket seals to see if they are in good shape and replace them as needed. Is water dripping from the outside of your electric water heater? Your gaskets may be loose. To troubleshoot this problem, turn off the power to your water heater, remove the hatch covers outside the tank, and inspect the gaskets for signs of leakage. To gain access to the gaskets, you may have to cut through some insulation. If you find that your gaskets are in need of repair or replacement, consult a professional HVAC Technician. To replace gaskets, you have to drain the tank first and then remove electrical components.
4. Leaking or Damaged Tank
If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be time to consider replacing the entire unit. Your tank will eventually corrode from the inside and cause leakage. This is as a result of erosion and sediment build-up. It is the worst cause of leaks and is not something you can repair on your own. Call Robert B. Payne, Inc. to inspect the tank and determine if it needs to be replaced. With proper maintenance and taking the necessary steps to identify and fix common causes of leakage, you can prevent damage from occurring in the first place. Be sure to check the water heater regularly and take proper care to ensure it lasts long.
Contact The Hot Water Heater Repair And Maintenance Experts
If you are experiencing water leaks from your hot water heater, contact Robert B. Payne, Inc. for an immediate assessment and repair of your unit. Our team of experienced technicians will help identify the cause of the leak and provide a comprehensive solution. We are available 24/7 to handle any water heater emergency or maintenance needs you may have. Give us a call today at 540-373-5876!