Common Reasons for Hot Water Heater Leaks – Remember that episode of “The Sopranos” when the FBI agents were in Tony’s house, hiding a recording device in the basement? Well, one of them noticed rust around the water heater and said, “Looks like Tony’s gonna need a new water tank in the next six months.” They laugh. Then, in a few days, it ruptures and Tony empties the basement, FBI bug included. Messing up the FBI’s plans, It’s good to know the common reasons and sign for water heater leaks.
You rely on your water heater every day without even realizing it. It get a LOT of work, so to speak. So, it’s not surprising when these appliances succumb to the effects of regular use over the course of a few years. Discovering a leak in your water heater can be concerning, but it’s important to note that not all leaks necessitate a complete replacement or significant repairs.
Among the various issues that can lead to a water heater leak, the most frequent culprits include faulty connections for both hot and cold water, loose gaskets, a damaged drain valve, and corrosion inside the tank. Fortunately, some of these problems can be resolved with simple adjustments or upgrades, allowing your water heater to regain its full functionality.
More reading: Why is There Sewage Coming Up Through the Bathtub?
Common Reasons for Hot Water Heater Leaks
- The cold and hot water connections aren’t functioning correctly. If the leak is coming from the cold water supply or the hot water pipe, it’s possible you could fix the problem entirely with an ordinary wrench. If the water heater lines are made of flex pipes, you should be able to tighten the connections just as you would with a standard garden hose. If your water lines are copper, you’ll need to call in professional help for soldering.
- Gaskets have been worked loose. If you notice water seeping from the outside of your electric water heater, loose gaskets might be to blame. To determine if this is your issue, you will need to turn off the power to your water heater and remove the “hatch covers” outside the water tank to access the gaskets. You might need to cut through some insulation in the process. If you do find leaks around the gaskets, you have another project on your hands. Replacing gaskets requires a full drain of the water heater tank and the removal of electrical components.
- The drain valve is damaged or loose. Is the water pooling from the base of your water heater? In this scenario, it could be easy to assume the tank itself is leaking. However, that’s not always the case. A damaged heater drain valve (located near the bottom of the tank) can cause puddles to form around your water heater. To fix this issue, flush the water tank and clean any buildup or debris from around the valve. If the leaking continues, you will need to replace the drain valve. This is something you should leave to the professionals.
- The water tank itself is leaking or damaged. This is the worst-case scenario. If you discover a leak in the water tank itself or the tank is damaged beyond repair due to sediment buildup and erosion, you will need to invest in an entirely new water heater unit. Take this as a reminder to stay up-to-date with your water heater maintenance items to prolong the life of the water heater.
Water heater repair and replacement in Greenville Area of South Carolina
Don’t be like Tony Soprano (that’s a stretch, right?), know the signs. The fact is, your home will have a hard time doing daily without a functional water heater. Why take any risks when you can bring in the professionals from Budget Plumbing? We can repair or replace your water heater and help you avoid further leaking and costly water damage. Schedule an appointment today at 864-250-0700.
