ERNIEGRAVES | Process Measurement & Control

Why Is Water Heater Leaking From Top?

Posted on Author Andrey KiligannPosted in CONTROLOTRONLeave a Reply

What Would Cause a Water Heater to Leak from the Top?

  1. The bottom of water heaters frequently leak, however the top of water heaters does not leak as frequently as the bottom.
  2. The reason for this is that sediments accumulate at the bottom of the tank and corrode the tank until fractures or holes appear.
  3. Drain valves are also notorious for leaking a lot.
  4. Leaking from the top of a water heater is typically caused by loose or corroded water intake or outlet pipe fittings, a faulty temperature and pressure relief valve, a malfunctioning thermal expansion tank, a faulty anode rod, or a faulty shut off valve connection.

Additionally, a leaking top seam might be the source of the problem.The water heater should be turned off immediately until the leak has been repaired if the problem is severe.If the leak is slow and controllable, you can continue to use the water heater until you can fix it or until a plumber can come to fix it on your schedule.It is not unsafe to have a leaky water heater because the pressure is being drained out, which means there is no chance of the tank bursting.Whenever a water heater leaks at a rapid rate, the water can cause significant damage to property, and if the water comes into touch with human flesh, it can cause severe scalding injuries.To repair a water heater that is leaking from the top, you must first determine where the leak is coming from.

  • Tighten any loose connections using a wrench, and if they are severely rusted, replace them with new ones.
  • It will be necessary to replace any faulty T&P valves or shut off valves, as well as any thermal expansion tanks.
  • If the water heater is leaking from the top seam, it should be replaced.
  • Whenever a leak originates straight from the water heater tank itself, rather than through any of its components, it is necessary to replace the tank.

This indicates that the water heater tank is leaking from its top seam, rather than from the base of the water heater tank.If this is the case, you will have no choice but to replace your water heater.A water heater should only be installed by a licensed plumber who is familiar with the city’s plumbing regulations.

Finding a Leak at the Top of the Water Heater

  1. Finding the source of a leak in a water heater is not usually straightforward unless the water is seeping out of the water heater at a rapid pace.
  2. Starting with shutting off the water heater should be your first step before attempting to identify where the leak originates.
  3. Electric water heaters should be turned off by turning off the circuit breaker that controls them.
  4. To cut off the gas supply to a natural gas-powered water heater, you must first turn off the gas supply to the pilot.

Take a dry cloth and wipe the top of your water heater down completely to remove any remaining residue.Pay close attention to all of the connections, not just those that are directly above the water, but also those that are above it, especially if the shut off valves and expansion tank are located directly above the water heater.Paper towels placed across the connectors will aid in the identification of the leaking one.It is important to use caution while handling the water heater with your bare hands since it is frequently hot.The approach used to repair the water heater will be dependent on where the leak is located.In some circumstances, you will not be need to purchase anything, but in others, you will be required to purchase a replacement item or two.

  • Should this happen, you will be forced to replace the complete water heater.

How to Fix a Water Heater Leaking from the Top

  1. Prior to making any attempts to repair the water heater, you should drain away a gallon or two of water from the tank.
  2. It’s important to remember that the water inside the water heater is extremely hot and under great pressure.
  3. By removing some water from the tank, you will have significantly lowered the pressure and temperature of the water, making it safe to work on it again.
  4. Place a bucket or attach a garden hose to the drain valve and open the valve with a flathead screwdriver to allow the water to drain.

Some drain valves, on the other hand, are equipped with a lever that aids in the draining process.Drain 1 or 2 liters of water from the tank and close the drain valve.After you’ve completed this step, you may begin diagnosing and repairing the water heater.Listed below are the several approaches to repairing a water heater that is leaking from the top:

1. Water Heater Leaking from the Top Seam

  1. A water heater contains two seals, one on top and one on the bottom, both of which are waterproof.
  2. Before a water heater is marketed, it is often submitted to a hydrostatic test at a higher pressure than it will be subjected to in the typical residential setting.
  3. If you see water leaking from the top seam of your water heater, it is likely that internal corrosion has gotten the better of your tank and a hole has created.
  4. If the leak is allowed to continue, the little hole will increase in size and produce a weakness along the entire seam, increasing the likelihood of the water heater bursting.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to repair a water heater that is leaking from the top seam.The only way to cope with it is to get a replacement.Because of the nature of water heaters and the rules that govern them, they are not meant to be welded.As soon as a tank begins to leak, it indicates that its structural integrity has been damaged, and replacement is the only viable choice.

2. Leaking Water Supply Pipe Connections

  1. A water heater is connected to the rest of the house by two pipes.
  2. One pipe transports cold water to the heater tank, while the other transports hot water from the heater tank to the fixtures in your home.
  3. Depending on your water heater, you may have solid copper pipes or stainless steel flexible water hoses connecting it to your home or business.
  4. Regardless of what you have, these pipes include fittings at the top that are threaded to your water heater and might very easily be the root of the problem.

Water heaters are composed of steel that is treated to hot and cold water at various periods, causing it to expand and contract as a result of the temperature differences.After a period of time, the regular expansion and contraction will cause the pipe fittings to become loose, resulting in the leaks.You have determined that the cause of the leak is water pipe connections, then proceed with caution.Take a wrench and attempt to tighten them a little more.Keep an eye on the leak to see if it stops.If you are unable to stop the leak, you will need to replace the fitting entirely.

  • Replacement of the water pipes’ connections is also recommended if the connectors are severely rusted.
  • Replacement of water heater fittings is a straightforward procedure that does not require the assistance of a professional plumber.
  • Take your old fixtures to a home improvement store and get a replacement that is an exact match.
  • Replacement kits for SharkBite water heater fittings are of high quality and are simple to put together.

Sometimes, after removing the connections, you will see that the interior of your water heater is severely corroded, to the point where it is impossible to repair the problem even by replacing the fittings.This is especially true if your water heater is more than ten years old or if you reside in a location where the water is really hard to work with.Check out this site if you want to learn more about the indicators that indicate that it is time to replace your water heater.

3. Leaking Shut off Valve

  1. The cold water supply line to your water heater has a water shutoff valve.
  2. Turn this valve off.
  3. When fixing your water heater, you may use this valve to turn off the water to your water heater rather than turning off the water to the entire house.
  4. A shut off valve situated right above a water heater will drip and drip until the water heater’s tank is completely submerged in water.

In order to operate a water shut off valve, either a lever (ball valve) or a knob must be used (gate valve).The valve handle is typically attached to the valve body with the help of a nut.Grab an adjustable wrench and tighten the nut on the valve to see if you can stop the leak.If this doesn’t work, try a another approach.Check to see whether the leak has been stopped.If the leak does not cease after a few attempts or if the shut off valve is severely rusted, it is necessary to replace it.

  • It is possible to purchase a kit that includes everything you need to replace the valve, water supply hose, and fittings.

4. Faulty T&P Valve

  • A temperature and pressure relief valve for a water heater is a tiny valve with a lever handle that is put directly on the top of the water heater or on the top side of the water heater tank. In order to prevent the water heater from exploding, it has been fitted with a safety device. The T&P valve, as it is generally called, does exactly what its name implies: it releases water out of the water heater when the conditions within the water heater exceed its rating (150 psi and 2100 F). It is common practice to attach a discharge tube to the T&P valve so that water (steam) may safely flow out and down to a pan rather than blasting all over your face, which can cause severe scalding. In order to determine whether or not the valve is functioning properly, place a small bucket beneath the discharge tube and gently lift the lever. If water pours out, then everything is well. You should get it changed as soon as possible if no water is coming out of the faucet. A similar problem can occur with the T&P valve’s threaded connection to the water heater, which is similar to the water supply pipe connections. When this occurs, depending on whether the valve is positioned at the top of the tank or on the side of the tank, water will begin to leak and either pool at the top of the tank or drop down to the bottom. Remove the valve and try to tighten it with a wrench once more Check to see whether the leak has been stopped. The valve connection should be replaced if the leak continues or evident corrosion can be seen throughout the connection. Replacement of a water heater temperature and pressure relief valve is accomplished as follows: To begin, turn off the water heater shutoff valve
  • if the valve is located on one side of the tank, drain out water from the tank until the water level is below where the valve is located. Check this by raising the valve lever
  • disconnect the discharge tube
  • and then check again.
  • With a wrench, remove the valve from the tank.
  • Cleaning the T&P valve connection threads on the water heater with a toothbrush or a tiny wire brush is recommended.
  • Wrap Teflon tape around the new valve six times in a counterclockwise direction.
  • The water heater’s valve should be threaded in. Using a wrench, tighten the screws
  • Open the shutoff valve and keep an eye out for leaks in the replacement valve.
  • If you are satisfied, connect the discharge tube.

5. Leaky Thermal Expansion Tank

  1. Thermal expansion tanks for water heaters are tiny steel tanks (approximately 2 gallons in capacity), which are mounted on the cold water line, between the shut off valve and the water heater connection.
  2. It is necessary to place a tee on the cold water line before installing the expansion tank.
  3. In a closed-loop system (due to the presence of a check valve or pressure lowering valve), the purpose of this tank is to prevent the water heater from bursting.
  4. The tank incorporates an air bladder, which allows it to handle excess water pressure from the tank as a result of thermal expansion.

In the event that the bladder ruptures, the tank will get flooded.If you attempt to leak air from the air inlet valve at the top of the tank, water will instead come out.Another symptom of a clogged water heater expansion tank is a T&P valve that is continually leaking water.The thermal expansion tank connection, like the other water heater connections, may become loose or rusted with time, much like the other connections.While a wrench can be used to tighten a loose connection, if the connection is substantially rusted and leaking, it is recommended that the expansion tank be replaced.

6. Leaking Anode Rode Plug

  1. Those of you who have been wondering what the plug at the top of your water heater is for will be pleased to know that it is the connection for the anode rode.
  2. The anode rod should be replaced every five years, according to the manufacturer.
  3. An anode rod is a long strip of metal (typically magnesium) that extends from the top of the water heater to the bottom of the water heater to provide corrosion protection.
  4. It gives up its life in order to prolong the life of the water heater’s internal lining, consequently prolonging the service life of the water heater’s internal lining.

The anode rode reacts with the elements in the water instead of eroding away at the interior lining of the water heater, increasing the life of the water heater.Because of this, it is recommended that you replace the anode rod after every 5 years.Again, the connection between the anode rod and the water heater might become loose, rusted, or perhaps both.If you haven’t changed the anode rod in the last five years, you should do so immediately.A zinc anode rod is preferable than a magnesium anode rod.

Others

  1. If the size of the water heater is insufficient in comparison to the amount of water used by your home, condensation on the outside of the water heater should be reasonably expected.
  2. I’ve created a comprehensive post on how to properly size a water heater.
  3. You may read it here.
  4. You should contact your local government if you detect water leaking from your vent.

If your location has just experienced a storm and the vent cover is missing, the water might have come from rain.Water leaking from the top vent of the water heater might potentially be caused by condensation in the venting system.

How to Fix a Water Heater Leaking from the Top

  1. The majority of the time, when a hot water heater leaks, the leaking from the top is not as significant a problem as leakage from the bottom of the heater.
  2. Both sorts of leaks are dangerous, but if you’re going to be dealing with a leak, leaking from the top is the ideal situation to be in.
  3. Water leaking from the top of a water heater is nearly always a repairable problem that does not necessitate the replacement of the water heater.
  4. The failure to address even the most minor leaks can result in more significant problems and the creation of expensive damage in the long run.

It is critical to resolve the issue as soon as possible.Here are eight possible reasons why your hot water heater may be leaking from the top, as well as instructions on how to resolve each issue:

1. Cold Water Inlet Valve

  1. A cold water input valve is the point at which cold water from the main water line enters your water heater.
  2. The problem: This can be an indicator that the top hot water outlet or inlet pipe is leaking and that the hot water heater is leaking from the bottom hot water outlet or inlet pipe.
  3. It is always best to start with the inflow pipe, because it is more likely to be the source of the water leak.
  4. It’s possible that something has become loose, that the valve is not fitting properly, or that the valve has been rusted.
See also:  How Do You Change Water Filter In Whirlpool Refrigerator?

Solution: Make a visual inspection of the cold water input line and seek for a ball or gate valve that will allow you to turn off the water.Check the valve for any symptoms of leaking before proceeding.If you discover that the pipe fitting has become loose and that water is flowing from the valve, you should tighten it with a wrench immediately.If the valve continues to leak even after being tightened, the valve is most likely malfunctioning and will need to be replaced in order to prevent your hot water heater from leaking from the top hot water outlet or intake.

2. TPR (Temperature and Pressure Relief) Valve

  1. Problème : The TPR valve is normally found on the side of your tank, however it might also be found on the top.
  2. The function of this valve is to assist in the discharge of water while simultaneously decreasing the pressure in the tank if the temperature or pressure in the tank becomes excessive.
  3. The TPR valve will need to be removed if you see water pouring out of the threads.
  4. This will allow you to identify the cause of the leak and repair it.

Solution: Check your TPR valve for any rusted or loose fittings that may be present.The valve will almost certainly need to be changed if it is the source of the leak.Because the TPR valve is critical to the overall safety of your unit, you should never activate your hot water heater while the TPR valve is malfunctioning.It is possible that a hot water heater will explode as a result of this.

3. Anode Rod Port

  1. The anode rod is a long, thin rod that is located within your hot water heater and is responsible for protecting your hot water heater from corrosion.
  2. If the anode rod was not there to draw the corrosive compounds present in the water, the corrosive substances would ″eat″ away at the interior of your hot water heater over time.
  3. The anode rod is utilized to prevent corrosion in your hot water tank; however, if the anode rod is not changed, the corrosion will reach the top of the rod and bubble up.
  4. It is possible that your hot water heater may begin to leak from the top as a result of this.

If your anode rod is the source of the problem, it will need to be replaced with a new rod.Unless you get the anode rod changed, the hot water heater will begin to corrode, resulting in significantly more expensive repairs down the road—or perhaps a complete replacement—if you do not act quickly.

4. Loose or Corroded Pipes Fittings

  1. Pipe fittings that are either loose or rusty may be the source of the problem.
  2. Solution: The fact that this happens naturally over time as your machine is used is that it is rarely a major issue.
  3. Solution: Check the dielectric nipples on the input and outlet fittings of your water heater to ensure they are in good working order.
  4. Over time, these nipples have a propensity to become loose or rusted.

If they are just too loose, they will need to be properly tightened to prevent further damage.It may be necessary to replace them if there is corrosion on the surface.When you see corrosion on the fittings of your hot water heater, it is critical that you undertake a more complete examination of the unit.Corrosion and rust on the exterior of your unit might indicate a major interior problem, and your unit may need to be replaced.Either that, or the fittings will need to be changed entirely.

5. Leaking Expansion Tank

  1. Most hot water heaters are situated beside a smaller tank, which is referred to as an expansion tank, which presents a problem.
  2. It is customary for the expansion tank to be located to the side of your hot water heater.
  3. Its aim is to collect any extra water that may be produced by your hot water heating system.
  4. Due to the expansion of water as it heats up, the volume of water in your hot water tank will eventually exceed the capacity of the tank.

As the water rises to the top of your hot water heater’s expansion tank, it helps to reduce pressure levels inside the unit.The expansion tank may begin to leak over a period of time and use.Solution: Investigate your expansion tank and hot water heater to see where the leak is emanating from.Examine the pipe fittings on the expansion tank and tighten any that are loose or leaking using a tool if necessary.If this does not fix the leaking problem, or if the leak is originating from the expansion tank, the expansion tank will most likely need to be replaced as a result.

6. Hole in the Top

  1. Corrosion is a serious issue with hot water heaters, especially if you don’t keep up with replacing your unit’s anode rod on a regular basis.
  2. Solution: Corrosion can occur inside your hot water heater tank, resulting in a hole on the top of your hot water heater through which it is possible for water to seep.
  3. In the unfortunate event that you discover any rust or corrosion on the interior or top of your hot water heater—particularly if the quantity is sufficient to cause a hole in the top of your tank—your hot water heater will need to be replaced.
  4. Alternative:

7. Condensation

  1. A common concern with hot water heaters is that they accumulate moisture.
  2. This is due to condensation rather than leaks.
  3. Condensate is essentially airborne water vapor that has been cooled below the dew point (the temperature where water vapor becomes a liquid).
  4. When low-temperature water is introduced into your piping system and the heating process begins, your hot water heater may generate up to a half-gallon of water vapor each hour of operation, depending on the model.

This might result in a significant amount of condensation on your unit.Solution: Condensation on your unit is not a problem that requires immediate attention.It is a regular aspect of the operation of a hot water heater.If you see moisture on the surface of your hot water heater, be sure to properly check it to ensure there isn’t a leak.If it is only condensation, there is no reason to be concerned.

8. Rainwater

  1. During severe storms with significant rainfall, rainwater can gather on the top of your hot water heater, causing it to fail.
  2. Many homeowners believe that this puddle of water is the result of a leak in their water heater.
  3. It is not a significant concern if rainwater accumulates on the top of your hot water heater.
  4. However, it is necessary to drain the water in order to prevent corrosion from happening.

Remove the water to ensure that it was not produced by a leak in your hot water heater, but rather by a rainfall instead.

How to Prevent a Water Heater From Leaking at the Top

  1. Preventing your hot water heater from leaking is one of the most effective methods to keep your house safe from major damage and costly repairs.
  2. Because most hot water heaters are tucked away in basements, garages, or utility closets, it’s possible for a large leak to go undetected for an extended period of time.
  3. Because of this, having your hot water heater tested and tuned up by an experienced technician on a regular basis is critical.
  4. When you do regular maintenance on your home’s water heater, you will be less likely to experience malfunctions and leaks, which will save you money on costly repairs and water damage in the long run.

A leak detector, which may be placed on the floor near your hot water heater, can also be used to assist inform you when there is a leak at the early symptoms of it.These devices emit loud sounds, and some of them can even be linked with your home’s internet to give you notifications if a leak is detected in your residence.

Call Professional Plumbing Services to Fix Your Water Heater Leaking from the Top

  1. You should contact a professional plumbing expert as soon as you notice that your hot water heater is leaking from the top despite your efforts to address the problem.
  2. All leaks, including hot water heater leaks from the top, are major concerns that must be handled as soon as possible in order to assist avoid serious damage from taking place.
  3. Contact John C.
  4. Flood now to have all of your hot water heater questions answered and to book your service.

We’re even giving $75 off any water heater installation, so don’t wait any longer.

Water Heater Leaking From Top? Here’s What to Do

  • You’ve discovered that your water heater is leaking from the top? First and foremost, take it easy. Most of the time, repairing a leak at the top of your water heater is far easier (and less expensive) than repairing a leak in the bottom of your tank. But only if you can locate and repair the leak as soon as possible! So, what is it that is causing the water heater to leak water from the top? The following are the most likely causes: a leaking cold water inlet valve
  • a leaking hot water inlet valve
  • a leaking hot water inlet valve
  • a leaking hot water inlet valve
  • a leaking hot water inlet valve
  • a leaking cold water inlet valve
  • a leaking hot water inlet valve
  • a leaking hot water inlet valve
  • a leaking hot water inlet valve
  • a leaking hot water inlet valve
  • a leaking hot
  • There’s a leaky temperature and pressure relief valve, rusted anode rods, and an expansion tank that’s leaked
  • the tank itself has leaked.

Now, let’s take a look at some of the actions you may take to figure out which of these is the source of your problem and how you might remedy it. Are you not interested in being a detective? Simply call us and we will detect and repair the leak as soon as possible!

Step 1: Turn off the water heater

  1. Make sure that the water heater’s gas or electricity is turned off before you begin messing with it for safety reasons.
  2. Keep in mind to turn off the water supply to the heater and to thoroughly dry the space around it.
  3. It may take a while for water to seep out of small gaps around the connectors, so give it some time to settle.
  4. When you turn the water back on, you will be able to see the direction in which the water is flowing from because of this.

You may not be able to tell where the water is coming from if the leaks are gradual and there is standing water around the connectors.If you have a gas water heater, make sure the gas valve is in the OFF position before continuing.The location of this valve is on the water heater itself.Ensure that the ball valve on the gas pipe that connects the heater is twisted at a 90-degree angle to prevent any gas from entering the heater (perpendicular to the piping).Please keep in mind that once the leak has been repaired and you are ready to use the water heater again, you will need to relight the pilot light.Follow the lighting instructions in the owner’s handbook provided by the manufacturer (some models may have these instructions on the side of the water heater).

  • Alternatively, if you have an electric water heater, you will turn off the electricity at the breaker panel.
  • Find a two-pole breaker labeled ″water heater″ and flip it to the ″OFF″ position to complete the process.
  • Note: Before re-connecting the electricity to an electric water heater, make sure that the tank is entirely re-filled with clean water.
  • Alternatively, you risk damaging the heating components contained within the tank.

The quickest and most straightforward method is to turn on the water valve to the water heater, then open the hot side of the bathtub valve and let it to run at full blast for a couple of minutes until the water is hot.This will eliminate any air that may have accumulated within the water heater tank, reducing the likelihood of damage to the heating components.

Step 2: Find the leak 

  • First and foremost, you’ll want to switch the water back on and keep a close eye out for where the water is originating. The cold water intake valve, pipe fittings, T&P relief valve, the anode rod screw, the expansion tank, and the tank itself are the most commonly leaking spots on the top of a water heater.

Determine which component has a leak by examining the images below, and then compare that component to the remedy provided in Step 3.

Cold water inlet valve

This valve is responsible for delivering water to your water heater so that it may be heated. If the valve, which is located directly above your heater and has failed, will drop water onto the top of the tank, the tank will overflow.

Pipe fittings

Check all of the connections on the top of the water heater to ensure they are all working properly. The water will leak if any connection, such as the hot and cold water valves, is not properly secured. Keep an eye out for corroded portions (which might be in the form of rust accumulation, a white powder material, or both) since this could be an indication of a leak.

The T&P relief valve

  • The T&P relief valve (temperature and pressure relief valve) in your water heater is a safety component that releases very hot water when the temperature or pressure in your tank exceeds the preset limitations. Depending on the model of your water heater, this valve may be situated on the side or on the top of the water heater tank.. It’s important to determine where the leak is coming from if your valve is on the top of your water heater (as seen in the photo below). There are two possible sources of leakage: from its base, where it screws into the water heater
  • from the piping related to the T&P relief valve, as well as from the open end of the pipe
  • and from the T&P relief valve itself.

Anode rod port

In order to keep your water heater tank from corroding, you should use an anode rod, which is a long, thin rod that draws all of the corrosive elements in the water. However, if the anode rod corrodes and is not changed as soon as possible, water will bubble up and spill through the port shown in the illustration below.

The expansion tank is leaking

  • Many water heaters are equipped with an expansion tank that is mounted on top of or adjacent to them. During the heating process, extra hot water is absorbed by this supplementary safety system, which serves to keep the house safe. The following three parts of the tank are susceptible to leakage: The threaded connection
  • the expansion tank itself
  • and the threaded connector.
  • The air valve on the opposite end of the threaded connection (water should never come out of this valve because it is supposed to be the ″dry″ side of the expansion tank that only has pressurized air in it)
  • the air valve on the opposite end of the threaded connection (water should never come out of this valve)

The tank itself is leaking

A small fracture or hole on the top of your water heater’s tank may be causing the water to appear to be flowing from within it. It is unfortunate because this indicates that the inner tank is corroding from the inside out and that you will need to replace it immediately. When a tank is leaking, you’ll frequently notice water bubbling up from the anode rod port as a result.

Step 3: Repair or call a professional

  • Now that you’ve identified the source of the leak, let’s look at some options for repairing it. If the handle on your cold water input valve is leaking, tighten the nut that keeps it in place using a screwdriver. With a wrench, spin the nut in the opposite direction of the clock. If the leak does not cease after a few attempts, the valve may need to be replaced. Obtain a professional opinion on the valve in order to decide the appropriate remedy
  • Try tightening the fitting with a wrench if the pipe fitting is loosened or the water is leaking from it. However, keep an eye out for symptoms of rust. If the pipe is corroded, it may be necessary to replace it. You will need to hire a professional to complete the task
  • if your T&P relief valve is leaking from the base of the water heater, where it screws into the water heater, you will need to replace the valve entirely. Using the following methods, you may replace a T&P relief valve on your own without professional assistance. The most common cause of water leaking from the piping that connects to the T&P relief valve, as well as from the open end of the pipe, is that there is too much pressure in the water heater or that the water temperature is too high. A professional should evaluate your tank to see what is causing the problem
  • if water is bubbling up and leaking from the anode rod port, you should contact a professional immediately as this might indicate that your tank is about to explode. Why? The bubbling water, on the other hand, indicates that the anode rod has rusted and must be replaced. And once the anode rod has rusted away, the corrosive chemicals in the water will begin to eat away at the inside lining of your tank, causing it to leak. Because of the length of time that your anode rod has been compromised, you may be forced to replace your water heater entirely.
  • If the expansion tank is leaking, look for the source of the leak and repair it if necessary. If the threaded connection is the source of the leak, simply remove it from its connection point, apply some thread sealer to the threads, then thread it back into place, tightening it down tightly after each thread. The expansion tank will need to be replaced if it is leaking from any other location on it. This should be done by a professional since the pressure within the tank must be appropriately adjusted in order for it to function properly.
  • If the tank itself is leaking, you’ll need to contact a professional to get it repaired or replaced as soon as possible. You run a greater risk of having your tank rupture and flooding your property the longer you delay to get it replaced.
See also:  How To Install Electric Water Heater Wiring

Need help from a professional? Call an AZ plumber

If you want assistance in repairing your water heater leak, we are available to assist you. Simply contact us immediately and we will dispatch a skilled plumber to your location.

Related reading:

  • What Is a Water Heater Expansion Pack and How Does It Work? (As well as why you would require one)
  • Should I replace my old water heater before it breaks down?

Why Your Water Heater is Leaking & How to Fix It – Red Cap Plumbing

  • It doesn’t matter where the leak is originating from
  • water seeping from your water heater indicates a serious problem. Fortunately, we’re here to assist you. Determine the location of the water heater leak as soon as possible by doing the following steps: Is the water heater’s top leaking, or is it somewhere else? As a result, proceed to the section below under ″My water heater is leaking from the top″ if this is the case.
  • Is the source of the leak closer to the bottom of the water heating system? Else, proceed to section titled ″My water heater is leaking from the bottom″
  • otherwise, read on.
  • Is there a leak in the tank itself? If this is the case, go on to the section titled ″If the water heater tank itself is leaking.″

Do you require a specialist to fix your water heater as soon as possible? Simply call us and we will dispatch a plumber to your location.

My water heater is leaking from the top

  • It’s probable that if you observe water leaking from the top of your water heater, it’s coming from one of four locations: The cold water intake pipe/valve
  • the TPR valve
  • the anode rod port
  • and the expansion tank are all examples of components.

If the cold water inlet valve is leaking…

  1. You will most likely see water coming from this location: This is the valve that allows cold, incoming water from your home’s main water supply to enter and fill your water heater’s storage tank.
  2. It is possible that the valve itself (which is located higher up on the line) has failed, causing water to leak down into the pipe and onto the top of your water heater.
  3. Water will flow from the point indicated by the red arrow in Figure 1 if a pipe fitting is not properly attached to the pipe.
  4. What to do is as follows: Using a wrench, tighten the pipe fitting if it appears to be loose and you notice water seeping from this spot.

If you see water dripping from the valve, you’ll need to get it replaced by a professional plumber.

If your TPR valve is leaking…

  1. .you will see water coming from this location: The temperature and pressure relief valve (TPR valve) in your water heater tank is a safety feature that only operates when the pressure and temperature within the tank are at an unsafe level.
  2. When the levels in the tank reach an unsafe level, the valve opens and emits hot water to reduce the pressure within the tank.
  3. If you have a typical discharge from your TPR valve, water should be released through the ″discharge pipe″ that runs the length of your water heater.
  4. As a result, if everything is functioning properly, you should only ever see water dropping towards the floor when your TPR valve is activated.

However, occasionally, the valve itself (as seen in the image above) becomes faulty and fails to fully shut, allowing some hot water or steam to escape from this location.What to do is as follows: If the TPR valve is leaking, it should be replaced by a professional.This is a critical safety feature that prevents your water heater from rupturing as a result of excessive pressure.It is therefore an indicator that the valve will not function correctly when needed if it is found to be leaking.

If water is leaking from your water heater’s anode rod port…

  1. You’ll see water coming from this location…
  2. Your anode rod is a long, slender rod that is installed inside your water heater to prevent corrosion of the tank.
  3. It is made of copper.
  4. Because corrosive substances in your home’s water ″eat away″ at the interior of your water heater over time, you should consider replacing it.

The anode rod, on the other hand, is meant to draw all of those corrosive substances and ″sacrifice″ itself in order to prevent your water heater tank from corroding.Although it is possible to replace the anode rod after it begins to corrode, this is not recommended since the corrosion will eventually reach the top of the rod, causing water to bubble up and flow out of the anode rod port (seen above).What to do: Have a professional repair your anode rod as soon as possible to prevent the inside of your water heater tank from becoming corroded and rusty.

If the expansion tank is leaking…

  1. Upon closer inspection, you’ll see water pouring from this little tank: Some water heater systems are equipped with a smaller tank referred to as the ″expansion tank.″ This tank is located to the side of your water heater and is intended to collect any extra water that may accumulate in the tank of your water heater.
  2. As you can see, water expands as it is heated.
  3. Additionally, because water expands after being heated, it might often overrun the available area within the tank.
  4. This results in extra water being transferred to the expansion tank, which helps to reduce the pressure levels inside the water heater.

However, with time, your expansion tank may begin to leak as a result of normal wear and tear.What to do is as follows: The expansion tank should be inspected to establish the location of the leak.If the leak is coming from the pipe fitting (which can be seen at the top of the tank), try tightening the fitting using a wrench.It is necessary to see a professional in order to repair or replace the expansion tank if the leak originates within the expansion tank.

My water heater is leaking from the bottom

In the event that you discover water leaking from the bottom of the water heater tank, it is most likely originating from one of two locations:

  1. TPR discharge pipe
  2. Drain valve

If your TPR discharge pipe is leaking…

  1. .you’ll see water leaking from a long pipe that goes down the length of the water heater and comes to a stop approximately 6 inches above the ground.
  2. So, what does all of this imply?
  3. Basically, it signifies that your water heater’s tank has a dangerously high level of pressure inside it.
  4. When the TPR valve (placed at the top of the water heater) detects excessive pressure levels, it automatically opens to drain the water.

When it opens, the water heater’s discharge line allows water to flow out of the bottom of the tank and into the drain.In most cases, a hissing noise is produced by a TPR valve that is discharging its contents.What to do: Have your water heater inspected by a professional as soon as possible.They will be able to discover what is generating the excessive pressure levels within the water heater and will be able to correct the problem.

If water is leaking from the drain valve…

  1. If you look closely, you’ll notice water pouring from this device: Using the drain valve on your water heater, a plumber may ″flush″ your water heater and get it back to working order (that is, drain it, clean it and fill it back up).
  2. The drain valve, on the other hand, may get blocked with particles or silt from the water over time.
  3. And when this happens, the valve may not seal correctly, allowing water to spill out.
  4. The best course of action is to have a professional replace the drain valve.

If the water heater tank itself is leaking…

  1. Water heater replacement should be done as soon as possible, so contact a professional right once.
  2. In other words, the fact that there is a leak in the tank itself indicates that the tank is corroding from the inside out.
  3. It’s also only a matter of time before the tank breaks, inflicting possibly extensive water damage to the surrounding area.
  4. What to do: Call a plumber right once to get the water heater fixed as soon as possible.

Need professional water heater repair in Tampa?

Simply get in touch with us. We’ll dispatch a skilled plumber to your location who will examine and repair your water heater in no time at all.

Why Your Water Heater is Leaking from the Top (How to Fix It)

If your water heater is going to leak, you certainly don’t want water coming from the bottom of your unit.That’s not to imply that a water heater leaking from the top is a desirable thing, but it is better to a bottom leak.But, what’s creating that leak and how can you remedy it?One thing is clear – if you don’t address the leak, you’re going to encounter more problems as a result, including probable electrical shorts in your heater and water damage to everything in the close proximity.And don’t believe that just because your water heater is leaking that you’re not going to have to replace the entire unit — it might be a simple fix.The good news is that when you catch your leak quickly, it’s almost always a repairable scenario.

  • Water takes the easiest path of resistance, which means any water flowing from the top will run down the side of the tank, which is what causes the electrical shorts and other water damage concerns, which is why you want to call a professional as soon as you spot a problem.
  • So, let’s look at some of the most common reasons your water heater is leaking at the top.

Common trouble areas

1) Loose fittings

Take a detailed look at the water intake and outflow fittings for leaks.This is a frequent spot where water leaks, and you’ll typically notice the leak at the point where the fittings meet the water heater, as shown in the illustration.You can try to tighten the fittings with a wrench if you have one.This may entirely halt the leak, so resolving your problem..Furthermore, rusting is not unheard of in this environment.The most effective way to deal with corrosion is to replace the fittings.

  • This is also a simple procedure unless your fittings are made of copper, in which case they must be connected together using solder, which is nearly always a job for a professional plumber to do.

2) Faulty inlet/outlet valve

In the event that you notice water accumulating on the top of your unit, this is a solid indication that your input or outlet pipe is leaking.In most cases, there will only be a loose fitting around the pipe, in which case you will only need to tighten the bolts that attach the handle to it.Alternatively, if after tightening the nut you discover that the valve continues to leak, it is likely that the valve itself has failed entirely and must be replaced.

3) T&P valve

The temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P) is sometimes found on the top of the water heater tank, but that is not always the case.This is a safety device that is activated if there is an excessive amount of pressure inside the tank.The release of steam will allow the pressure to return to normal after it has been activated.It is necessary to remove the valve and replace it with a new one if water is leaking from the threads of the valve.You should begin by cutting off the water supply to the unit and draining it until it is below the water level of the valve.If you are confident in your ability to solve this problem, you should proceed to step 2.

  • You’ll need to let some air into the tank, so turn on a nearby hot water valve.
  • To remove the valve, use your channel lock tool to unscrew it.
  • Give your valve and tank a thorough check to see if there is any corrosion present.
  • Whenever you notice signs of rust in your unit, it’s time to replace it completely.
  • As long as your tank is modern, there should be no rust and no need to replace the tank; however, you will need to cover the threads of your T&P valve in Teflon tape and reinstall it on your unit to prevent corrosion from occurring.

Other issues

If your hot water heater is electric, it relies on up to two heating elements to heat the water before it is released into the system.The heating components are extended into the tank and come into touch with the liquid inside.Gaskets are fitted at the point of entrance to prevent leaks from occurring.These gaskets, on the other hand, might become faulty, resulting in leakage.A cover plate and maybe some insulation must be removed in order to obtain access to the gasket.Before anything else, cut off the electricity to the heater and the water supply to the heater.

  • Before you can replace the element gasket, you must first drain the tank completely.
  • Whether your hot water heater is leaking from the top or from anyplace else on the unit, Old World Plumbing will get to the bottom of the issue and get you back up and running in no time.
  • Since 2004, we’ve been the go-to plumbing professionals for residential plumbing in the Chicago region, and we look forward to serving you.
  • For more information, please contact us at (630) 315-0888 to arrange an appointment with one of our highly trained plumbers who will evaluate your plumbing system and make any required repairs or replacements.
  • Tom Hartel is a writer who lives in New York City.
  • President/Author I gained my knowledge and experience by overseeing the day-to-day operations of the company for more than two decades.
  • I became a nationally renowned speaker and expert on plumbing and fire prevention systems as a result of my dedication and hard work over the years.
  • In this blog, I offer my expertise in the hopes that it may assist you in making better decisions about your houses in the future.
See also:  What Is The Weep Hole On A Water Pump For?

What to Do When Your Water Heater Starts Leaking from the Top

The much-loved water heater, how I adore you.It ensures that our daily showers are hot and that our never-ending mounds of dirty dishes are well cleaned.Trying to fathom life without it is a difficult task.Because a water heater is so necessary to your everyday home life, it is critical that you do all in your power to keep it in good working order at all times.That entails inspecting it on a regular basis to ensure that everything is in working order.So, what should you do if you notice water leaking from the top of your water heater to prevent more damage?

  • Fortunately, your friends at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Bay Area have put together this helpful do-it-yourself guide to assist you in diagnosing and resolving this frequent water heater problem.
  • Before we get started on the remedies, let’s take a brief look at some of the likely reasons of the problem.
  • Typically, leaks from the top of the water heater are caused by one of the three connections at the top, as seen in the diagram below: 1) A hot water generating connection is installed.
  • 2) A water-generating connection that produces cold water 3) A connection that allows pressure to be released

What to do when you see water coming out of water heater’s top

According to the information above, it’s critical to thoroughly inspect these three connections at the top of your hot water heater if you suspect a leak.It will be decided by which of these connections is insecure as to which course of action you will take.Most of the time, one of these connections has to be tightened, which you may do by hand if necessary.To tighten the loose fitting, all you need is a wrench.This frequently results in the leak being repaired immediately.1.

  • Wipe down the damp places on the top of your water heater with paper towels to ensure that it is completely dry.
  • 2.
  • Next, pay attention to where the water first appears to be coming from.
  • 3.
  • If you discover that a leak is still occurring, cut off the power source immediately to avoid any electrical problems in the future.
  • If you have a gas water heater, make sure the gas supply is turned off.
  • Make a clockwise turn on the gas valve, which should be found either to the side or behind your water heater at the end of the gas supply line.
  • If you have an electric water heater, make sure the breaker switch in your home’s circuit box is turned off.

If you are unable to locate the water heater’s label, you should switch off the main breaker.It’s possible that the pressure relief valve (as seen in the figure above) is defective, or that debris has accumulated inside the valve, which is interfering with its operation.This may be tested by placing a bowl just below what is known as the overflow tube.2.Next, lift the tab on the pressure relief valve to release the pressure.

  • You’ll want to be certain that it is pointing directly out.
  • The valve should then be opened, allowing any material that may have been hiding to be flushed away.
  • 3.
  • If you discover that the valve continues to leak after doing these steps, you will most likely require a replacement.
  1. Simply tighten the pressure relief valve, or try wrapping Teflon tape across the threaded connection if the pressure relief valve detects a leak at the connection.

Another solution to solve the problem of your hot water tank leaking from top

Even if you are unsure of the root cause of the water heater leak or if you don’t have much previous experience with hot water heaters leaking from the top, our Bay Area Benjamin Franklin Plumbing staff is delighted to assist you.With decades of combined experience and competence in repairing water heaters, you can count on us to provide you with 100 percent satisfaction.Furthermore, we are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.Please contact us at any moment!

Gas Hot Water Heater Leaking from Top and What to Do

There are a variety of reasons why a water heater may leak.There are more than a half-dozen components and causes that contribute to the leakage from the top of a gas hot water heater.Even though it may not be comforting to learn that a gas hot water heater that leaks from the top is preferable than one that leaks from the bottom or another area of the unit.This is due to the fact that all of the reasons may be addressed.You are not need to purchase a new heater.If the leak is located at the bottom of the unit, it is likely that you will need to replace it entirely.

  • However, this does not imply that you should ignore a gas hot water heater that is leaking from the top.

Locate Leak Source

It is necessary to locate the specific source of the leaking liquid.To begin, switch off the power to the computer.In the case of a gas water heater, be certain that the thermostat control is in the ″off″ position.Look for the cold water intake on the right.Keep this valve open in the same manner as if water were flowing in, so that you can clearly detect the leak.Pressure variations will occur in an empty tank or one that is not receiving water pouring into it, and the leak may eventually cease on its own.

  • Clean and dry the area surrounding the heater as well, so that you can detect any new leaks that have appeared.
  • It’s probable that you’ll confuse old spilt or pooled water for new leaks when inspecting your home.
  • It is not recommended to leave the cold water intake turned on all of the time.
  • As soon as you locate the leak or the specific source of the problem, switch it off to keep the damage to a minimum.

Damaged Water Inlet Valve

One of the most typical causes of gas hot water leaking from the top is a faulty water entry valve, which is discussed further below.It is possible that either the input valve or the output pipe is leaking.A damaged component might have been the result of regular wear and tear, damage, or a faulty component from the start.Check the valve, and if it is the source of the leak, it should be replaced immediately.It is also conceivable that the valve will be slack and that it will need to be tightened in order to function properly.Tighten the nut, and if the leak persists, replace it with a brand new one.

Loose Pipe

A leaking gas hot water heater from the top might potentially be the result of a faulty pipe or fitting.Examine the exit fittings and the water input for any problems.If there is any water leaking from this location or from any of the connecting sites, the pipe will need to be tightened.Make all of the connections snug with a wrench.Over time, all of these components have a tendency to corrode.If tightening does not work, the components should be replaced.

Malfunctioning Temperature and Pressure Valve

A temperature and pressure valve, also known as a temperature-pressure relief valve, that is not operating properly or has been broken is a fairly common source of gas hot water heater leakage from the top. It’s possible that you’ll need to replace it or check the temperature and pressure within the tank.

Can You Still Use Water If Water Heater Is Leaking

If your water heater is leaking, you can still utilize the water it provides.The leak is the source of the worry.The issue arises in pinpointing the specific position of the leak and how far it has gone in order to cause more damage or injury to your home and business.As a result, it is recommended that you use as little water as possible until a plumber can come and fix the water heater for you.Depending on where the leak or flood occurs on your tankless water heater, you may still be able to use the appliance after halting the flow of water caused by the leak.Shut off the gas supply and open the doors and windows for several minutes to air out the area before turning on the electric appliances again if you have a gas unit that leaks gasses such as carbon monoxide.

  • Unless the flooding was caused by freezing conditions, which can distort or shatter metal tanks, the majority of these devices are normally covered under warranty for this type of issue unless the freezing temperatures caused the flooding.

How Do I Know If The Water Is Leaking?

In the absence of any standing water, you can test the operation of appliances to see if they are still functional following flooding or leaking When dealing with this sort of situation, you may also need to take some precautionary actions to ensure that it does not recur.It is necessary to replace the heating element in your tankless heater as soon as possible if the heating element is malfunctioning.This will assist in keeping the appliance operating efficiently so that it does not overflow with water in the future.

What If My Gas Water Heater Is Leaking?

When a gas-powered unit floods, switch off the incoming gas supply and open doors and windows for several minutes to enable toxic fumes such as carbon monoxide to disperse and prevent the device from catching fire.Running water down the drain also aids in the removal of extra dirt and other impurities, preventing the house from being flooded.After experiencing a flood or leak in your tankless water heater, do not switch it back on until the problem has been rectified.The presence of floods can create an electrical danger, while the presence of leaks can produce damage that could result in more flooding surrounding electrical components.If your tankless heater is brand new and has never been used before leaking or flooding, there may be a manufacturing issue with the device which is covered under warranty.

What If My Electric Water Heater Is Leaking?

Electric water heaters, such as storage versions, can be utilized even if they have a leak in the system.With these devices, the tanks are often composed of plastic rather than metal, and they seldom shatter as a result of the high temperatures inside the heater unless there was an existing problem with the appliance prior to installation.If the tank is formed of metal, it may have become weakened over time due to corrosion or rust, and it might explode if utilized.Therefore, do not use this sort of heater until it has been repaired or replaced with a new one.As soon as you see standing water around your electric water heater, use towels or other absorbent materials to soak up the excess water as quickly as possible.Use of a vacuum cleaner should be avoided since it has the potential to send live electrical currents through the air, resulting in electrocution.

  • You will need to turn off the electricity before you can remove one that floods actively.

What Are The Costs Of Fixing A Water Heater Leak?

The ultimate cost of repairing all types of gas and electric heaters is dependent on a variety of factors, including the amount of labor required, if hot water is required quickly, and so on.Most hot water heater repairs, according to Home Advisor, cost between $220 and $955.This is a broad average, and you’re most likely to find yourself in the lower end of the spectrum.Larger repairs, such as replacing an element in a tankless hot water heater, will be far more expensive.

Do You Need A Professional To Repair A Water Heater Leak?

There are many people who find themselves in the situation of having a water heater leak and are unsure whether or not to hire a professional or attempt the repair yourself.It is feasible for you to handle your own water heater repair; however, you will need to thoroughly drain the tank first before you can proceed.The fact that hot water may still be present in the tank after you’ve drained it makes this a potentially hazardous task.The best course of action is to contact Lutz Plumbing for assistance in order to avoid any potential harm or extra damage.We are accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so call us immediately!

what to do with a leaking water heater

Water heaters are built to last a long period, but even the greatest ones can develop leaks over time.A leaky water heater does not always indicate that it has to be replaced, but you should address any leaks as soon as they are discovered.The presence of even a tiny amount of water can do significant harm, thus it is critical to assess the situation immediately when it occurs.First and foremost, determine the source of the leak.Even if a little quantity of water is visible below your water heater, it is possible that the water heater is not the source of the leak.Remove any standing water and assess the area.

  • Are any of the fittings dripping or are there any other symptoms of leakage that you’re aware of?
  • Make a thorough search of your surroundings for any other potential water sources.
  • Where did you find the water?
  • Was it near a window or another water pipe?
  • Keeping in mind the laws of gravity, if your floor slopes in any way, it’s possible that water went from another spot to where you discovered it.
  • If you are unable to locate the source of the water straight away, place some paper towels where the water was discovered and check again in a few hours to a day or two.
  • When you return, please The presence of damp towels indicates that there is a problem, and the water heater may be the source of the problem.
  • If you’ve discovered that the source of the leak is your water heater, follow the steps below to assess the problem, or just give us a call and one of our highly trained professionals will come out to inspect the situation.

NEED IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE?

follow these steps to assess the situation

  • Water heater leaks should be addressed immediately by shutting down the water supply to the tank. On the cold inlet pipes of your water heater tank, there should be a specific shutdown valve for your water heater tank. If you have a gate-style valve (a valve with a rotating wheel), spin the valve as far clockwise as you possibly can.
  • If the valve is a ball-style valve, turn the handle 180 degrees
  • otherwise, turn the handle 180 degrees.

Please contact us at (866) 264-9642 if you need assistance working through this.If the valve in your home is damaged, you can turn off the water supply to your home.Every home should be equipped with a main water shutoff valve, which would allow the flow of water to be stopped throughout the whole house.We encourage you to phone us if you are unable to locate the shut-off valve on your own and we will plan a time for one of our service specialists to come out to your home to assist you as soon as possible.If you have an electric or gas water heater, follow the actions outlined in this section.

Electric Water Heater

It is recommended that you turn off the power at the breaker before working on the water heater tank if you have an electric water heater and are having trouble with it. Simply turn off the circuit breaker.

Gas Water Heater

  • For gas-powered water heaters that are leaking, we recommend that you turn off the gas supply before attempting any repairs.

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