Why Is My Water Heater Leaking?
John Turpin is our resident home service repair expert here at Service Direct. He’s got the knowledge and experience to help homeowners like you make sense of most home repair issues. And with Service Direct, we connect you with top-tier service professionals to help with any repairs needed.
Don’t Panic if You Find Your Water Heater Suddenly Leaking
Is your water heater leaking? If it is, you must take care of it immediately or it can lead to more serious problems. Long-term leaks can eventually cause water damage to your walls, floors, and furniture. The question is, “How do you fix a leaking water heater?” It starts with finding out the cause of the leak.
Types of Water Heater Leaks
Before we talk about the possible causes of a water heater leak, it helps to know the type of leak you have. There are three categories for this:
Tank Leaks
When the storage tank of the water heater is compromised, tank leaks happen. Corrosion, physical harm, or design flaws can all cause these leaks. Tank leaks can cause a constant flow of water to collect around the heater’s base.
Pressure Relief Valve Leaks
The pressure relief valve (PRV) is a safety device that relieves excess pressure from the water heater to avoid explosions. The PRV may leak water around the valve region if it is broken or has reached the end of its useful life.
Temperature and Pressure (T&P) Valve Leaks
The T&P valve, like the PRV, is a safety device that releases pressure when the temperature or pressure within the water heater rises over acceptable limits. A leak at the T&P valve might be a sign that the tank is under too much pressure or heat.
Common Causes of Water Heater Leaks
“Why is my water heater leaking?” you ask yourself. Well, there could be many things causing the leak, from an old water heater to a faulty component. Here are some potential causes in more detail:
Old Tank
Why is my water heater leaking? It could just be that it’s old. Tank water heaters over 15 years old leak more frequently than newer models. As components deteriorate with time, the water doesn’t retain its heat as effectively and leaks happen a lot of time. Also, the leaks may develop due to rust building up in the tank.
Corrosion
Due to the frequent exposure to water, the interior of the tank may corrode with time. The integrity of the tank is weakened by corrosion, which causes leaks. This is especially frequent in water heaters that are older or have hard water. Regular upkeep and periodic cleaning can help your water heater last longer by preventing sediment accumulation.
Sediment Buildup
“Why is my water tank leaking?” One of the possible reasons is sediment buildup. Sediment gathers at the bottom of the tank, forming a barrier between the water and the burner or heating element. As a result, the tank bottom overheats, weakening the metal and causing leaks. This problem may be avoided by flushing the tank annually to eliminate silt.
Excessive pressure
Water heater leaks can result from excessive pressure inside the tank, which is frequently brought on by a broken pressure release valve. The tank’s construction can deteriorate, allowing water to escape. Check the pressure relief valve to make sure it is operating properly and replace it if necessary.
Faulty Valve
Another possible cause of the water heater leaking is a faulty pressure relief valve. Because it’s faulty, the valve doesn’t properly shut after releasing pressure. This may result in a constant trickle of water escaping from the valve. If you wish to stop further leaks, replace a new pressure relief valve for the damaged one.
Excessive Temperature or Pressure
If the pressure or temperature within the tank rises above acceptable limits, a broken T&P valve might discharge water. This typically occurs as a result of a broken valve or a problem with the heating element. What’s the best thing to do if this continues to be a problem? Examine the valve’s functionality and call a qualified plumber.
How to Prevent Water Heater Leaks
It’s concerning when you suddenly notice the water heater leaking. But don’t worry because there are ways you can fix this and prevent it as well. With that said, here are tips and tricks you can do to keep your water heater in good condition for a long time.
1. Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Perform routine maintenance checks to catch potential issues before they get worse. Inspect the tank, connections, valves, and other parts of the heater for signs of corrosion, moisture buildup, and rust. With regular maintenance, you can prevent the development of leaks.
2. Check Pressure Relief Valve
You know by now how important the pressure relief valve is when it comes to relieving excess pressure. Therefore, don’t forget to test it to ensure it functions properly. If it’s leaking or not discharging pressure correctly, consider replacing the valve.
3. Address Sediment Buildup
Flush your water heater every year to get rid of sediment buildup. As you know, sediment can cause corrosion, overheating, and leaks. With that said, follow the manufacturer’s instructions in safely draining the tank of accumulated sediment.
4. Inspect Anode Rod
By drawing minerals and other materials that might otherwise corrode the tank, the anode rod helps to prevent corrosion. Frequently check the anode rod for signs of wear and tear. To avoid tank damage and potential leaks, replace it if it has rusted considerably.
5. Monitor Temperature Settings
A too-high temperature on the water heater can harm the tank and speed up corrosion. As such, it’s important that you monitor the temperature settings all the time. If you want to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety, set the temperature at around 120°F (49°C).
Our resident home repair guru, John Turpin, has provided a list of common reasons why your water heater is leaking along with some suggested solutions and DIY tips to fix it.
6. Insulate Pipes
Insulating the pipes is important as it reduces condensation and moisture accumulation, which can eventually cause corrosion and leaks. Thus, make sure you insulate the hot water pipes to stop your water heater from leaking.
7. Maintain Good Ventilation
It is crucial for the water heater’s ventilation to be functioning properly. If not, the lack of ventilation can cause gas fumes to build up, which can lead to the tank corroding and of course, cause leaks.
8. Prevent Excessive Pressure
“Why is my water heater leaking?” As we said before, it might be due to too much pressure in the tank. For this, our advice is to consult a qualified plumber promptly when you notice changes in water pressure or if the PRV is consistently releasing water.
9. Conduct Professional Inspections
To detect any possible issues early, schedule routine inspections by a qualified plumber. A professional can carry out a thorough evaluation, make the required repairs, and provide suggestions for preventative measures to stop leaks before they start.
10. Address Minor Leaks Promptly
Don’t overlook a leak, no matter how little. Small leaks can grow into bigger problems very rapidly. Find the leak’s source and fix it right away, whether it is by tightening connections, changing broken components, or getting assistance from an expert.
Taking proactive measures is the key to addressing the issue of a water heater leaking. Perform routine maintenance, keep a close eye on things, take care of concerns no matter how small, and call in an expert when necessary. This way, you can avoid the issue and possibly even increase the lifespan of your water heater.
Is a leaking water heater dangerous?
A leaking water heater may not be immediately dangerous, but it can result in more serious problems including water damage, mold development, and increased electricity costs. Leaks should be fixed right away to avoid these issues.
Can I fix a leaking water heater myself?
You might be able to fix simple problems, such as a leaky pressure relief valve, on your own. To prevent things from becoming worse, it’s advised to call a professional plumber if the leak is more significant or you’re unclear about the reason.
Can a leaking water heater be repaired or do I need to replace it?
Depending on the extent of damage, the water heater’s age, and the cost of repairs, you have to decide whether to repair or replace an older water heater. A qualified plumber can advise you depending on your particular circumstances.
How can I prevent future water heater leaks?
Leaks from water heaters may be avoided with routine maintenance, which includes cleaning to remove sediment, checking pressure relief valves, and keeping an eye on temperature settings. Leak prevention techniques include promptly fixing small leaks and arranging professional inspections.
How do I choose a reliable plumber to fix my water heater leak?
When choosing a plumber, search for experts with knowledge in fixing water heaters, valid licenses, and satisfied clients. You may locate a reliable plumber by asking your friends, family, or neighbors for suggestions.
Hire a Local Plumbing Pro
When proactive measures aren’t enough and you need professional support to deal with your leaky water heater, don’t hesitate to contact a local plumbing pro using the phone number or form on this page.