Is Your Water Heater Leaking?

Common Causes of Water Heater Leaks

• Corrosion

Your water heater tank is made of metal, which can corrode over time. When the metal corrodes, it weakens, leading to cracks or holes in the tank.

• Worn-Out Seals

The connections between the pipes and the tank are sealed using gaskets or rubber rings. These seals can become worn out over time, causing leaks.

• High Water Pressure

If the water pressure in your home is too high, it can cause the water heater tank to crack or burst, leading to leaks.

• Loose Drain Valve

The drain valve is located at the bottom of the tank and is used to drain the water from the tank. If the valve becomes loose or damaged, it can cause water to leak from the tank.

• Improper Installation

If the water heater was not installed correctly, it can cause leaks.

• Age

Water heaters have a limited lifespan, and as they age, they become more prone to leaks. If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it.

Signs Your Water Heater Is Leaking

• Puddles or pools of water around the base of the water heater
• Water stains or dampness on the walls or floor near the water heater
• Dripping or trickling sounds coming from the water heater or pipes
• A decrease in hot water temperature or water pressure
• A musty or moldy smell in the area around the water heater

If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to address the issue promptly to avoid further damage or safety hazards.

Steps to Take If Your Water Heater Is Leaking

Step 1: Turn off the Power and Gas Supply

For electric water heaters, turn off the power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. For gas water heaters, turn off the gas supply valve.

Step 2: Turn off the Water Supply

Locate the water shut-off valve on the cold water supply line connected to the water heater and turn it off to stop the flow of water into the tank.

Step 3: Drain the Tank

Connect a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, and run the other end of the hose to a floor drain or outside. Open the valve to drain the water heater tank.

Step 4: Call a nearby plumber

The plumber will inspect your water heater, identify the source of leaks, and advise on the best course of action.

Preventing Water Heater Leaks

Here are some tips to help prevent water heater leaks:

• Have your water heater inspected and serviced by a professional plumber annually.
• Consider installing a water heater leak detector that will alert you if there is a leak.
• Monitor water pressure
• Inspect the anode rod regularly
• Avoid DIY water heater repairs
• Replace old water heaters

Call the Expert Plumbers at Trust Rooter for Water Heater Repair

If you’re in need of reliable and cost-effective water heater repair, you can trust the plumbers at Trust Rooter to get the job done right. Our plumbers have the skills, experience, and advanced tools to provide dependable water heater services. Apart from water heater repair, we offer tankless water heater installation, water heater replacement, water heater maintenance, and more.