What To Do When Your Hot Water Heater Is Leaking - ERNIEGRAVES

What to Do if You Notice Your Water Heater Leaking

The possibility of a leaky water heater is one of those possible issues that many homeowners overlook. Because the water heater is frequently placed in a part of the house that is rarely visited, many of us are prone to falling into the “out of sight, out of mind” trap when it comes to maintaining it. Water heater problems are only discovered when it becomes painfully clear that something is wrong with the water heater. The harm to your home may have already been done by that point, and it may be too late to prevent further damage.

This article will shed more light on that often used item, as well as on the steps you can take to ensure that it does not become a cause of troubles in your home or business.

The Reasons Why Your Water Heater Is Leaking

Let’s start with the reasons why water heaters are prone to leaking. There are a variety of factors that contribute to water heaters bursting their seals. This is probably not news to you.

Gradual Aging

When it comes to aging, water heaters are no different than any other piece of equipment in your house. These water heaters, on the other hand, may be fairly durable when compared to many of the other equipment you use on a daily basis. They have the ability to operate without interruption for up to 10 years, and this is true even if you do nothing to keep them in good working order. Nonetheless, 10 years might pass in a blink of an eye, and you may lose sight of how old your heater actually is.

That could provide some insight into why it’s behaving up in the first place.

The Hot and Cold Inlets and Outlets

Because of their location on the water heater, the hot and cold inlets and outlets are more vulnerable to damage when compared to the rest of the unit’s other components. If you’ve observed that your heater is beginning to leak, have a look at these components.

The Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve

Several factors might be contributing to the leak, including the temperature and pressure relief valve on your water heater and a clogged drain line. If the valve is subjected to an excessive amount of pressure, it may begin to malfunction. The problem might also be caused by the water heater elevating the temperature of the water to an excessive level. It is possible that the temperature and pressure relief valves will be damaged as a result.

The Drain Valve

Because the drain valve was created to flush out any sediment that may have made its way into the water heater, you should anticipate it to leak at least a little bit during operation. There is, however, a substantial distinction between a frequent trickling and a full-blown leak in this case. Inspect the drain valve to ensure that it is not discharging any more water than it should be, since this might develop into a serious problem sooner rather than later.

The Water Tank

Considering that the tank of your water heater is the source of the leak, you have a significant problem on your hands. That is not something that can be resolved fast, and it may cost a significant amount of money to handle.

The only true advantage to this situation is that you will be able to tell straight away if there is a problem with the water tank since you will observe flooding instead of merely leaky water coming out.

The Telltale Signs That Your Water Heater Is About to Leak

If your tank doesn’t have a large hole in it, it’s unlikely that you’ll detect a leak immediately away. Although it is a good idea to inspect your water heater on a regular basis, the great majority of homeowners fail to do so on a regular basis. One advantage of performing a comprehensive check of your water heater on a regular basis is that you won’t have to wait long to discover that it’s damaged. You can keep an eye out for some of the signs of a faulty water heater, which we have included in the section below.

The Water Quality Has Changed

A large number of people prefer to take hot water showers first thing in the morning. Some people are able to tolerate the freezing cold water striking their bodies at such an early hour, but others are unable to do so. If your water heater is leaking, you don’t necessarily have to be concerned about cold water pouring down on you, but you may notice that the water coming out is tepid rather than hot. Most people might dismiss this as a result of a cooler than normal morning, but it could be a sign that your water heater isn’t functioning properly, as seen in the image below.

This is a problem that you may have noticed previously since some of the items you’re washing have developed rust spots on them unexpectedly.

When it is not recommended to do so on purpose, you may notice rusty water while showering if some droplets reach close to your face as a result of the unique smell and flavor of the water.

It may not be leaking at this time, but it may do so in the near future.

The Exterior of the Water Heater Looks Rusty

If we’re talking about rust, you don’t need to find it in the water to know that your heater is likely to experience issues in the near future. Also, check the external heater to determine whether rust has begun to build on the surface of the heater. The presence of rust on the tank is a very reliable indicator that there is a leak someplace. Take the time to inspect the burner units as well; they are susceptible to rust in the same way.

The Water Heater Is Producing Noticeable Noise

It is unavoidable for sediment to accumulate within the water heater. There will be no indication of the sediment’s existence for an extended period of time. At some point, though, the sediment will solidify and begin to make a clicking sound whenever the water heater is turned on or off. You might try listening to the heater to see if you can find out if there is a problem with it.

Puddles of Water Are Forming around the Water Heater

Even though it may seem apparent, if you begin to observe puddles of water developing around the heater, it is a good indication that there is a leak in the system. The majority of the time, the puddle of water that indicates a leak will be located just under the heater.

How to Fix a Broken Water Heater

You are now aware of the signs and symptoms, and you can decide whether your water heater is leaking.

So, what do you suggest you do next? In order to deal with the problem of your water heater leaking, you should follow these suggestions.

Detect Precisely Where the Leak Is

Even if you are already aware that your water heater is leaking, it is vital to understand that not all leaks may be repaired in the same manner. In addition to defective connections and valves, the leak might be caused by the tank itself as we discussed above. Prior to making any repairs, concentrate on locating the source of the leak first. Determine where water is collecting and clean it up. Then check again the next day to see if any additional water has accumulated there. This should provide you with an indication of the location of a potential tank leak.

Turn Off the Power and Drain the Tank

As soon as you’ve determined that there is a leak and have pinpointed the location of the leak, you should turn off your water heater. Electric water heaters should be turned off by utilizing the circuit breaker box located near the water heater. Locate the circuit breaker that supplies your water and turn it off. You must be thorough because you never want to find yourself in a situation where you may be standing in water while some electricity is still running through the wire or other components.

Following the successful completion of a complete shutdown of the water heater, you can begin to drain the tank.

Close Off the Water Supply

You may now begin the process of shutting down the water supply because the tank is now empty. First and foremost, locate the cold water shutoff valve. You can turn off the valve yourself as long as you are certain that you will be able to do it securely. Making this adjustment should be sufficient to prevent further water from spilling into the heater. If the cold water shut off valve on the heater is in a difficult to reach location, you might try to locate the main water shut off valve on your home instead.

Address the Problem Areas

It’s now time to get down to business with the actual repairs, which might range from being rather straightforward to being really difficult. If the problem is connected to the cold and hot water inlets and outputs, you may be able to address it on your own by following these steps. Take a look at the connections to check if there are any areas where they are loose or damaged. Make use of your tool to tighten them down even further. If you follow these steps, you should be able to resolve your leak problem.

It’s possible that there’s a problem with the water pressure, but it’s also possible that a valve has malfunctioned.

You might try to do it yourself, but if you don’t have the necessary experience, you can wind up making matters worse instead of better.

Finally, if the tank itself already has a significant hole in it, it is possible that repairs will no longer be effective. It is possible that you may need to invest in a new water heater at that moment.

How to Maintain Your Water Heater

Even if you decide to repair or replace your water heater, it is in your best interests to keep it in better condition in the long run. Fortunately, doing appropriate water heater maintenance is not a difficult operation. Maintaining constant eye contact with the anode or sacrificial rod is one of the most important things you can do. This component of the water heater is in charge of collecting any debris that may have accumulated inside the tank. Check up on it on a semi-regular basis to ensure that it is still operational.

If you want to extend the life of your water heater, it is also a good idea to flush the tank with water every now and again.

Once a year will suffice to keep your water heater in excellent working order.

The Benefits of Maintaining Your Water Heater

Maintenance is essential not just for extending the life of your water heater, but also for improving the efficiency with which the device operates. If you put in the effort to keep the appliance in good working order, you’ll receive more value for your money. Making the effort to keep your water heater in good working order might help you avoid damage to your home’s basement. When it comes to leakage-related damage, one of the most frustrating aspects is that it isn’t usually obvious immediately away.

Put in the effort to keep your vehicle in good working order to avoid incurring that unneeded expenditure.

Call the Professionals to Fix Your Water Heater Problems Properly

It is worthwhile to attempt to repair the water heater on your own; but, if the repairs get too complicated, professional assistance may be required to complete them. Get in contact with the plumbing experts at Best San Diego Leak Detection to get all of your water heater problems resolved as quickly and efficiently as possible. You may also contact them if you have any other plumbing-related difficulties that you would want them to take care of. Posted on February 26, 2020 in Categories:

What To Do When Your Water Heater Is Leaking

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.

Are any of the fittings dripping or are there any other symptoms of leakage that you’re aware of?
Where did you find the water?
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.
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?

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.

For agate-style valves (which have a wheel that spins), crank the valve as far clockwise as you possibly can. if the valve is a ball-style valve, turn the handle in the other direction

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.

Electric Water Heater

To avoid further damage to your electric water heater, we recommend that you first turn off the electricity at the breaker before attempting to repair the tank. Simply turn off the circuit breaker.

Gas Water Heater

The gas supply should be disconnected before working on a leaky gas-powered water heater, according to our recommendations. On the gas line going to the tank, there should be a specific gas shut-off valve to prevent the flow of gas. See the image below for a visual representation of a gas water heater being turned off. Once your water and electricity have been switched off, you will be able to more accurately analyze the problem and discover where the leak is coming from in more detail.

Check the input and output connections. Leaks are frequently found at the points where pipes connect to your water heater. Examine the connections for the cold water input and hot water output. Is there a problem with any of the fittings? It’s possible that all they require is to be tightened using a pipe wrench. Make that the pressure release valve is working properly. If there is an excessive buildup of pressure, the pressure relief valve, also known as the T P valve, may be activated to release water as a safety precaution. It is possible that pressure will build up at the valve if your thermostat is set too high or if the water pressure to your home is excessive. Check your thermostat settings to ensure that the temperature is not set too high. A pressure gauge at a hose bib may be used to check the pressure in your home (you can also check the pressure in your car). What temperature should you have your water heater set at in the first place? The Department of Energy suggests that you set your tank-based water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit instead of the default setting of 140 degrees Fahrenheit that most manufacturers use. Water flowing from the T P valve indicates that it is doing its function by releasing water as the pressure develops, or that the valve is broken in some way. However, if your thermostat is not set too high and you are still experiencing leakage, the issue may be with the valve itself
Check your water pressure. Besides checking the pressure and temperature, it’s a good idea to check the humidity. You may check the pressure by attaching a pressure gauge to the hose bib outside your home and running it through it. What should I do if my incoming pressure is excessive? According to the regulations, your inbound water pressure should not be greater than 80 PSI, and if the pressure is greater than 100 PSI, we strongly recommend that you install a pressure lowering valve. Not only might your water pressure be producing a leak, but it could also be causing damage to your fixtures. Look at the bottom of the water heater for leaks. Identifying the cause of a leak might be challenging in some cases, particularly if water is pooling underneath the tank itself. It’s possible that water leaking from a valve will run down the sides of the tank, creating the appearance that it’s coming from the bottom while in fact it’s coming from the top or sides. Alternatively, if the leak is coming from the bottom of the tank, it is possible that the tank itself is damaged, in which case it will need to be replaced. Make that the drain valve is working properly. The drain valve, which is located towards the bottom of the tank, should be entirely closed, so ensure sure there is no water flowing from this place. If it is leaking, it is possible that the washer inside has become worn and has to be replaced. If you are still unable to locate the source of the leak, please contact us and one of our professionals will be able to assist you
No matter what you discover, it is always recommended that you have a professional evaluate your water heater if you discover any leaks.

When your water heater specialist arrives to begin work, they will drain your tank. However, if your tank is leaking excessively, you may want to drain it promptly to avoid water damage to your property. The following actions should be followed if you need to empty your water heater before a professional arrives: After you’ve shut off the water and electricity, follow these steps:

Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and run it outside on the ground to remove the water. Make certain that the tank is drained to an appropriate area, such as a gutter drain or a sink. It is not recommended to discharge the water onto your lawn or driveway since the silt and rust from the tank might hurt your grass and discolor your driveway. Activate the drain valve that is connected to the hose. Pulling up on the pressure release valve on the tank’s top will allow it to be opened. Allowing the water in the tank to drain is recommended.

Again, unless you are concerned about catastrophic damage to your home, you do not need to be concerned about draining your water heater. If you need assistance, our professionals would be pleased to assist you. Following these initial procedures after discovering a leak can be quite beneficial in preventing water damage from accumulating. Any inquiries or concerns you may have should be sent to (866) 264-9642, which is our toll free number.

Loose Drain Valve:

Lagging drain valves in water heaters are one of the most prevalent causes of water heater leaking. Try tightening the valve with a wrench until it is snug, but be cautious not to over-tighten it if water appears to be flowing out.

Too Much Pressure:

It is possible for a water heater tank to build up excessive pressure, which might result in leaks. This can happen if the water temperature is adjusted too high or if the water pressure from the outer water source is too high for the tank to handle.

Cracked Storage Tank:

Hot water heaters are constructed using a storage tank that is coated with glass. Over time, the natural minerals in the water might calcify and deposit on the interior of the tank, causing it to get clogged. These have the potential to fracture the glass lining of your water heater, causing it to leak. Additionally, water expands when it is heated. Over time, this expansion places stress on the heater’s glass lining, which might eventually lead it to crack and break. Unfortunately, if this occurs, your hot water heater will need to be replaced since the breaks in the glass liner are irreparable and cannot be repaired.

Providing the leaking water does not cause damage, this is OK, but the unit will need to be replaced at some point in the future.

Other Reasons:

Your water heater may be leaking for a variety of reasons, including broken fittings, poor draining, and just old age. Performing some troubleshooting on your own is always a good idea, but calling in a professional will always be the safest and most effective method to avoid any long-term and expensive damage to your property.

Your Water Heater Isn’t Producing Hot Water

If your hot water heater is no longer supplying hot water and the tank is supplied by electricity, check to see if the fuse at the breaker has blown and that the breaker has not been reset. Whether you have a gas hot water heater, you may also check to see if the pilot light is still lit to see if the heater is still operational. If neither of these basic solutions are successful, contact to schedule a service call with a skilled technician to come to your house and assess the situation.

My Gas is Leaking – I Smell Gas!

If you suspect a gas leak at the water heater, you can shut off the gas at the dedicated gas shut off valve located on the gas line leading to the water heater and turn off the water heater. If you suspect that you have a gas leak concern that has not been resolved, you can contact Fast for service at (866) 264-9642. It is usually recommended to notify your energy company as soon as possible in the event of a significant gas leak or emergency.

After an Earthquake, Protect Your Home

If you think you smell gas, call 911 immediately.

Locate the meter on the street outside your house. Turn the gas valve 14 times from the ON position to the OFF position. Make contact with your natural gas business.

Having to deal with a leaky water heater first thing in the morning is not the best way to start the day. It is possible to avoid an emergency from turning into a disaster, though, by following these procedures.

DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT, HEAR WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS HAVE TO SAY.

Water leaks in the average home in the United States waste 10,000 gallons of water each year. Even worse, 10 percent of US houses have plumbing problems that are so severe that they waste 32,850 gallons of water every year. So, if you’ve found that your water heater is leaking or dripping, it’s important to address the problem as soon as possible. The sooner you take action, the sooner you will be able to conserve water, money, and even the water tank itself. Water damage can be difficult to fix and can cost a significant amount of money.

A water heater tank that appears to be leaking may really be preventing its contents from being wasted.

A leak inspection of the entire home should be performed to see if you have a leaky tank (or any other probable leak).

There are numerous houses who have their water meters outside, on the curb in front of their home.

Once you’ve located the meter, instruct everyone in the house to turn off the water while you do the test. Make certain that all faucets, toilets, fixtures, and water appliances are totally stopped off. At this time, your meter should have come to a complete stop.

Confirm If It’s Your Hot Water Heater Leaking

A water heater tank that appears to be leaking may really be preventing its contents from being wasted.
A leak inspection of the entire home should be performed to see if you have a leaky tank (or any other probable leak).
There are numerous houses who have their water meters outside, on the curb in front of their home.
Once you’ve located the meter, instruct everyone in the house to turn off the water while you do the test.
At this time, your meter should have come to a complete stop.

Close the Tank’s Water Supply Valve (Turn off the water)

Following confirmation that your tank is leaking, the following step is to turn off the valve that controls the leak (shut off the water). This prevents any more cold water from entering the tank. You should turn off the electricity again before working on the shut-off valve if you had to turn on the heater again after turning it off. The shut-off valve is usually located just above the water heater, on the cold water supply line, in the majority of tanks. This may be a gate valve that you need to turn or twist, or it could be a handle that you can quickly pull down and open.

Fix the Leak

Depending on the severity of the leak and the location of the leak, you may be able to complete a few simple DIY repairs. If your water heater is leaking from the top, this may come as welcome news to you and your family. Leaks in water connections are the most straightforward to fix. Prepare yourself, though, since you may need to hire a qualified plumber if the problem is more substantial or severe, such as a tank leak.

Leaking Water Connections

The cold water inlet and hot water exit pipes that are linked to your tank top are the two pipes that supply water to your tank. This is due to the fact that water constantly flows in and out of these lines, causing them to become loose or disconnected over time. If this is the source of your water heater’s leak, you may simply need to tighten the connections that are loose. Make careful to check for leaks at both the intake and output of the appliance.

A pipe wrench should do the work in this case. However, once again, be certain that your water heater is not receiving electricity before securing the connections. The importance of this is magnified if you’re dealing with a hot water outlet problem. The input line for cold water is leaking.

A Leaking Drain Valve

The “drain valve” is a valve that is located towards the bottom of your water heater tank. This is the component that allows you to drain your tank for the purpose of maintenance. Furthermore, you should flush and clean your tank at least once a year to ensure that sediment accumulation is removed from the system. The drain valve, like all other connections, might become loose with time, just like any other part of the system. If you notice that your water heater is leaking from this section, use a pipe wrench to slightly tighten it down.

If the water heater is still leaking, it is possible that the valve has to be replaced.

Leaking Drain Valve on a Water Heater

A Leaking TemperaturePressure Relief Valve

It is standard equipment on your water heater to include a temperature and pressure release valve (T P Valve). It is a mechanism that allows steam or water to escape from a tank in order to prevent the accumulation of excessive temperature or pressure. It should perform its function if the temperature within the tank surpasses 210 degrees Fahrenheit or if the pressure inside the tank exceeds 150 pounds per square inch. Because it is a valve, this component of your water heater is also prone to leaking due to its design.

Eventually, it may become faulty, allowing water to escape from the pipe to which it is connected.

After all, you’re dealing with more than just leaks; you’re also dealing with temperature and pressure.

Leaking from the Pressure Relief Valve on a Water Heater

A Leaking Water Heater

The inside tank of a water heater is protected by insulating materials. After that, an outer skin is wrapped across the entire portion. A leak that emerges from the bottom of the tank would be the most frequent indicator of an inside portion that is beginning to leak. If this is the core cause of your water heater’s problems, you will need to have the water heater repaired or replaced. Due to the fact that leaks are typically an indication of degradation, these leaks are frequently irreparably damaged and cannot be repaired.

You can extend the life of your water heater by doing routine and preventative maintenance on it.

Install a Powered Anode Rod to Prevent Water Heater Leaking

If you have had a water heater leak due to corrosion, or if you don’t want it to happen again, we recommend putting a Corro-Protec driven anode rod in the water heater. This anode makes use of electricity to protect the tank against corrosion and to reduce the formation of limescale inside the tank. This rod is only 12 inches long, and it is simple to install.

It also comes with a 20-year warranty, so you will never have to worry about your water heater rusting again. Since its introduction to the market more than two decades ago, Corro-Protec anodes have helped to preserve over 75,000 water heaters throughout North America.

Replace the Magnesium Anode Rod Before It Completely Corrodes

A sacrificial component known as a “sacrificial anode rod” is located within your water tank. In any instance, an anode rod makes the ultimate sacrifice in order to safeguard the interior of a water heater tank’s interior. Water elements are drawn to it, and these elements can corrode and damage the other metal components of the tank. The anode rod can be thought of as a permanent magnet. It attracts minerals and metal ions that would otherwise corrode and oxidize the heater’s internal components.

The installation of a sacrificial magnesium anode rod is difficult, and it does not survive very long (only last 2 or 3 years).

An anode rod has a shorter life span than the complete tank as a result of the purpose for which it was designed.

Don’t Forget to Maintain Your Water Heater

If you don’t want to have to deal with a leaky water heater in the future, make sure you are doing regular maintenance on it. It is important to thoroughly clean your water heater’s internal components, in addition to emptying and replacing the anode once a year as recommended. Clean the exterior of your tank, as well as the valves and water connections on it. You will be able to get rid of dust and debris accumulation, which can lead to decreased performance.

Why Is My Water Heater Leaking? Causes & Solutions

Water heaters, whether gas or electric, have a lifespan of around 8 to 12 years if they are maintained properly. Despite this, there is always the possibility that your water heater will leak. If this is the case, the good news is that the majority of minor water heater leaks may be repaired rather quickly. What’s more, the finest thing is. There are various things you can do before calling a plumber to make the process even more straightforward!

Why Is My Water Heater Leaking?

The following are the most common reasons of water heater leaks:

Water will spill from the bottom of the tank if the drain valves are not working correctly. They are readily repaired by simply replacing the faulty drain valve. Corrosion can occur as a result of sediment buildup, which can result in corrosion, cracking, and holes in the tank’s bottom. As soon as this occurs, it is typically necessary to replace the water heater. Connections to the water supply pipe that are loose: Normal wear and tear can cause the input and outlet water lines to become slack, resulting in leaks. This problem may normally be resolved by tightening or replacing the loose, worn water pipes
However, this is not always the case. temperature/pressure valves that are no longer working properly: As their name implies, these valves monitor and regulate the temperature and pressure within water heaters. A ruptured water heater tank’s side tank might cause water to flow out of the sides of the tank.

Of course, a variety of additional factors can contribute to water heater leaks, and these leaks can sometimes be the consequence of a combination of factors. The most effective approach to establish what is causing your water heater leak and to obtain the best option for fixing it is to consult with an expert, such as the experienced plumbers at Len The Plumber.

What to Do When You Discover a Water Heater Leak: 3 Steps to Take

If your water heater is leaking, use these three actions to stop the leak:

When you discover a hot water leak, the very first thing you should do is turn off the electricity in the area. To switch off the energy source that is responsible for:

Water heater powered by natural gas: Look for your thermostat. You should notice a little knob with three settings: ON, OFF, and PILOT. Turn it to the ON position. It should be set to OFF or PILOT to completely turn off the gas and make the heater safe to use. Water heater powered by electricity: Locate the “water heater” breaker on your breaker panel by looking for it on the panel. Turn it off to turn off the electricity to your unit.

Turn off the water: Locate the cold water pipe that leads to your water heater and turn it off there. It is likely that a valve will be present on the line
Turn it to the right until it closes. Using this method, you may turn off the water and go to the following stage
Drain the water tank: If you have a tank (or conventional) water heater, draining the tank is the most important step you must take. The fact is that it is also the most time-consuming. To empty your water heater tank, follow these steps:

Locate the drain valve, which is usually located towards the bottom of your water heater, and connect a garden hose to it
Make a connection between the hose and a floor drain or sump pit. Open the valve (on earlier hot water heaters, this may appear like a regular spigot
On recent systems, there is a drain stem with a slot for a screwdriver)
While the hose is still in place, turn on the water.

NOTE: If you open the drain valve and the water doesn’t flow or doesn’t flow very well, you may discover that the water doesn’t flow at all. Because there is a vacuum in the water heater, this is happening.

In order to dislodge the vacuum, turn on any hot water faucet in your home. This will allow more air to enter the water tank, allowing it to drain more quickly. Once you’ve established a good flow, the tank should be completely empty in approximately an hour.

Immediately after the water heater has been drained, contact Len The Plumber for water heater repair service. We’ll locate the source of the water heater leak and take care of it as soon as possible. In addition, we provide 24-hour emergency water heater servicing at no additional charge, and we provide flexible financing options. Because of this, getting the servicing and water heater repairs you want is now easier and more convenient than ever before.

Schedule Water Heater Repair Service: Contact Len The Plumber

A water heater leak or issue may be diagnosed and repaired by the skilled plumbers at Len The Plumber at any time of day or night. Whether you have a gas or electric water heater, a tank or a tankless water heater, we are prepared to deliver the highest-quality service to restore your water heater and your reliable access to hot water! Contact us now to schedule an appointment! To arrange water heater repair service, call(800) 950-4619(800) 950-4619or contact Len The Plumber online immediately.

We’re delighted to be the team that residents in Maryland, Northern Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Washington, D.C. rely on for first-rate plumbing services and solutions. Simply contact us to get your own personal experience with our superiority!

Water Heater Leaking? Here’s What to Do!

No matter where it originates, a leak is never a good indication in any situation. The absence of hot water is typically indicative of a problem with your hot water heater, which must be addressed until the problem is resolved. In the event that your water heater is leaking and you find yourself in a dilemma, here’s what you should do.

Is it Dangerous?

This is one of the most often asked questions we receive from worried homeowners. A leaky water heater, like any other malfunctioning device, may pose a number of risks to the people and property in your house. One of the most serious problems that homeowners should be concerned about is water damage. You’ll be ankle-deep in water if your water heater bursts, and the water will immediately seep into your floorboards, providing the perfect habitat for mold and mildew to take hold. When this occurs, your only choice is to call for emergency services.

Pressure inside the tank increases as the water heats up, and this pressure is gradually released via the safety valve as the water cools.

Again, this is an incredibly unusual occurrence, but it is possible.

What are the Causes?

When it comes to leaks, even something as basic as where they are located may make the difference between a simple repair and a pricey replacement. Generally speaking, a water heater that leaks from the top has a far greater chance of being fixed than one that leaks from the bottom of the tank. The valves and pipes that link the water heater to the rest of the plumbing system are placed at the very top of the water heater. If one of these components becomes dislodged, water will begin to seep from the pipes, but this is a problem that can be readily corrected.

It is necessary to replace a leaky tank if the tank is not repairable.

What Should I Do?

When dealing with a leaky hot water heater, you don’t have to take on the role of repairman yourself. That is exactly what we are here for! Please contact a Radiant plumber as soon as you become aware of the leak so that we can dispatch an emergency plumber to your house in Round Rock, TX, and the surrounding regions, at the earliest possible convenience. In the meanwhile, you may protect your property from further harm by turning off the water heater. To switch off the water heater on an electric type, you must locate the water heater breaker in the circuit breaker box.

Also, make sure you switch off the water supply by turning off the cold water shut-off valve so that your water heater tank does not continue to draw water from the plumbing system after you have turned off the water.

Radiant technicians, on the other hand, are experts in everything related to plumbing and HVAC.

We also offer some useful advice on what you can do to prepare for your plumbing service. Please see below for further information. To book an appointment, please contact us right away.

Why is My Water Heater Leaking Water? What to do [With Pictures]

There is nothing more frustrating than discovering a puddle of water surrounding your water heater. It’s yet another mess to clean up, and the sinking feeling you get when you think about how much money you’ll have to spend to fix it may be unpleasant to experience. If you see a puddle on the floor around your water heater, it’s crucial to figure out what’s causing it right away so that you don’t have to deal with any more issues down the road. Throughout this post, we’ll go over how a water heater works, some of the most frequent causes of leaks, how to fix them if they’re little or if you require water heater repair, and how to attempt to avoid this scenario from happening again in the near future.

Perhaps all it need is a little tender loving care to get it back into operating shape.

Stop the Leak Right Away With the Help of a Pro!

How Does A Hot Water Heater Work?

First and foremost, it is critical to understand how your water heater operates! Let’s get started! To begin, cold water enters the tank through the intake lines. This is followed by hot water. Following that, a dip tube transports the cold water to the bottom of the tank, where it is heated. An Electric Water Heater has two electrical components, one at the top and the other near the bottom, that are responsible for heating the water contained within the unit. If you have a gas water heater, the burner assembly will ignite and produce a burning flame.

After that, the fumes from the combustion gas are expelled through a spherical silver pipe in the ceiling.

Finally, this water departs the heater through the output pipe and is disseminated throughout your residence.

What To Do If You Find A Leaking Water Heater

Instead of standing powerless and perplexed in front of your leaky water heater, you may take action. Continue reading for some straightforward troubleshooting methods that any homeowner may do, as well as options for minor repairs if they feel confident enough to do so!

Step 1. Verify It Is Your Water Heater Leaking Water

It is now necessary to identify and address the cause of the problem. It is critical to determine whether the moisture is due to a leak rather than simply condensation on the surface. Condensation is not a worry at this time. To put it simply, it implies that the water heater is extremely hot, but that the room in which it is placed is extremely chilly. By washing off and drying your water heater, you can see if it’s the case. After that, take a thorough look at its outside. Condensation is most likely the cause of moisture developing uniformly throughout the surface.

Is your central air conditioning system nearby?

Check to see if your air conditioner is leaking water or if your furnace is leaking water. You might place paper towels on the ground to see whether the water is coming from a different source. Is it your water heater that’s leaking water, or is it your air conditioning system?

Step 2. Turn Power Off

Once you have determined that the source of the leak is your water heater, the next step is to quickly switch off the electricity. It is not recommended that you operate on your water heater while it is connected to its electrical supply. Locate your circuit breaker and turn the water heater switch to the “OFF” position if you have an electric water heater. At the circuit board of an electric water heater, turn off the power to the unit. If you have a gas water heater, there is a specific gas shutdown valve located at the base of the tank, close to where the gas line enters the tank.

Step 3. Shut Off Cold Water Supply

The next step is to turn off the cold water supply to your water heater and let it sit for a while. There are two pipes that run from the top of your water heater tank to the bottom. The cold supply input pipe of the majority of water heaters is equipped with a shutdown valve. This is the location where your water is obtained. The cold water entrance line, which is often marked by a blue (cold) or red (warm) color indicator, supplies cold water to the storage tank. The warm exit pipe is responsible for transporting hot water from the water heater to your residence.

shutoff valve for the water supply If the shutdown valve is a wheel that can be turned, turn the wheel as far as you can in the clockwise direction.

Step 4. Look For The Source Of The Water Leak

After then, it’s time to truly get down to business. As soon as you’ve switched off your water and power, it’s time to look for and locate the cause of the leak so that you can properly troubleshoot and repair it. Identify the areas where the water is accumulating and clean them up. In the event that you see a buildup of water in the same location the following day, you will now know where to begin troubleshooting your hot water heater leaking problem.

Water Leak At Top Of Water Heater: Check Pipes

The top of the water heater has a leak. Do you have a water leak at the top of your water heater that you’d want to investigate? Look for leaks in the two pipes that go from the top of your water heater. They are referred to as the cold water input pipe and the warm water output pipe, respectively. These pipes carry water into the tank, where it is heated, and then out into your home, where it is consumed. If their fittings or connections are loose, it is possible that this is the source of the leak you are experiencing.

A Pipe Wrench may be used to tighten pipes in order to fix a leaky water heater.

Side or Bottom of Water Heater Tank Leaking: TemperaturePressure Relief Valve

If you see water trickling down the side of your tank, it is possible that your Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve, often known as the T P valve, is malfunctioning. Every water heater is equipped with a T P valve. This is a safety device that is designed to discharge water if there is an excessive amount of water pressure. If you see water escaping from the T P valve, first check to see if the temperature is set too high on the water heater. If the temperature is too high, it may result in an excessive amount of pressure, which will activate this safety device.

If, on the other hand, the temperature has not been raised to an excessive level and the leaking continues, you may have a malfunctioning valve.
The drain valve on the water heater is allowing water to flow out.
The aim of this valve is to empty the water heater so that it may be serviced properly.
If it is still leaking, it is possible that it is loose.

It is critical not to overtighten the valve, since this will cause the valve to leak even more heavily. If your drain valve continues to drip after you have troubleshooted it, you may need to get it replaced.

Water Heater Tank Leak At The Base

The base of the water heater has a leak. An inexplicable pooling of water towards the base of your water heater tank might be the consequence of a break in the tank’s hot water heater insulation. Unfortunately, a hot water heater repair will not be sufficient; you will be need to purchase a new water heater to complete the job.

Step 5. Clean Up Water Heater Leak

Don’t forget to pick up the water after yourself. Water may be the source of a variety of issues. It has the potential to deform structures, destroy possessions, and invite insects or mold! It’s ideal if you get started right away!

Step 6. Schedule A Water Heater Repair With An HVAC Pro

Alternatively, if your water heater is still leaking water after troubleshooting, you may always contact an HVAC professional for assistance! It is sometimes necessary to call in a professional to get your water heater back up and running. With the help of high-tech water heater services, you may avoid a flooded disaster.

What Causes A Leaky Water Heater?

If any of the pipes or valves linked to your water heater are loose, it is possible that a leak will occur. A replacement fixture may be required if tightening them does not prevent the fixture from leaking.

Bad Drain Valve

Water will seep out of your drain valve if it is loose or damaged in any way.

Faulty T P Valve

Whenever the water pressure becomes too high, the T P valve is intended to open and allow the water out. However, if the connection between the valves gets slack, or if the T P valve fails, water might leak out.

High Water Pressure

When the temperature on your water heater thermostat is set to a high setting, the T P valve will begin to release water into the system. This is to keep you safe from a water heater that is under a lot of pressure.

Hard Water

The minerals in the water heater cause the liner of the water heater tank to degrade over time as a result of their presence. Cracks begin to appear on the interior of the supply tank as a result. A tank with cracks will almost certainly burst, releasing its contents.

Crack In Water Heater

Water expands as a result of the heat. As a result of the continual strain placed on the water heater, fractures begin to appear on its surface after some time has passed. In addition, hard water causes fractures to appear in your tank’s walls and floor. The fracture in your water heater indicates that it is time to replace the water heater altogether.

HowDo I Prevent My Water Heater Leaking?

What if I told you that you could avoid a leaking water heater? If your water heater is leaking, you don’t have to put up with the worry and uncertainty that comes along with it. A regular inspection of your water heater is essential for preventing costly and bothersome problems down the road. Water heater maintenance performed by a professional takes preventative measures to keep cracks, leaks, and other issues from developing in your water heater. Continue reading to learn how a professional can maintain your water heater operating at peak performance.

Proper Maintenance From A Pro

A water heater professional will examine your water heater thermostat to verify that it is in excellent working order.

Check T P Valve

In the following step, they will examine the T P valve to ensure that this safety device is not endangering your family or house.

Analyze Flue Pipe

The flue pipe of a gas water heater will be examined by a water heater technician to see whether the combustion gases are being properly vented. In addition, they will look for fractures, holes, or corrosion in the flue pipe during the inspection.

Inspect For Leaks

In order to determine whether or not there are obvious fractures or leaks in the water heater, a water heater professional will inspect the complete water heater.

EvaluateAdjust All Connecting Pipes

The pipes that transport water to and from the heater must be checked and cleaned on a regular basis. A specialist will inspect the water heater for leaks and clean, tighten, and adjust all of the connections that lead to it.

Examine Drain Valve

As part of an annual maintenance check, an experienced water heater professional inspects, tightens, and cleans your water heater’s drain valve. If it were to become loose, broken, or blocked, you would be dealing with a highly inconvenient leak that would be quite aggravating.

Replace the Anode Rod

They will also examine and replace your Anode rod, which will aid in the prevention of fractures appearing. It is the Anode rod that draws minerals in the water, which helps to ensure that the structure of the water heater is maintained for as long as feasible. As a result of these abrasive minerals causing the Anode rod to degrade, it is necessary to replace the rod every 2-3 years in order to keep the tank from breaking in the first place.

Drain Water Heater To Release Sediment

Water heaters acquire silt, calcium, sand, and minerals over time, which eventually settle to the bottom of the tank. One of the consequences of a buildup of silt in your tank is that cracks can occur and your water heater can become ineffective, among other things. Draining your water heater once a year will help to prevent silt from causing damage to your water heater. When you have a professional do a water heater maintenance check, they will always empty your water heater to prevent early degradation.

Lose The Leak With A Water Heater Repair

If you have a leaky water heater, don’t get too stressed up about it. You may get immediate assistance with your Water Heater Repair by contacting a water heater professional. We will troubleshoot the leak and make repairs as soon as possible. Our team of professionals is ready to discuss how we can begin working on this project together as soon as possible. How about you? Do you have any questions? If you are suffering any water heater issues, such as your water heater’s pilot light constantly turning out, please do not hesitate to contact us at (443) 219- 7798 or arrange an appointment onlinehere.

What To Do When Your Water Heater is Leaking

Repairing a Water Heater The majority of us go about our daily lives without giving our hot water heater much thought. that is, until the machine has a malfunction of some sort. It is possible for a hot water heater to fail in a variety of ways, but the most immediately noticeable is when it develops a leak. In the event that you pass by your water heater and see that it has a pool of water surrounding it, this is a very strong indication that it need some plumbing attention and maintenance.

Is this something you’ll be able to do on your own?

In this post, we’ll provide our recommendations for fixing your unit in a manner that prioritizes your personal safety while also assisting you in determining the best strategy to resolve the leaking water heater as fast as possible.

If you have determined that you require expert assistance, please see our in-depth article on hot water heater repair costs.

What Causes Water Heater Leaks?

To begin, let’s go over the fundamentals of the plumbing trade: What are some of the possible reasons of a leaky water heater? What are some of the potential solutions? There are a variety of variables that might be contributing to the leak in your water heater. Each of the following alternatives should be considered:

There’s a problem with the drain valve right now. The drain valve is responsible for allowing water to be removed from the tank for maintenance or replacement. In addition, homeowners may utilize the drain valve to empty the tank of any silt that has accumulated in the tank over time. A little amount of water may escape if the drain valve becomes loose, which may occur simply as a result of wear and use. The good news is that this is generally a fairly simple remedy
Simply take a wrench and tighten the drain valve to see if this resolves the issue. If it doesn’t, it’s possible that the valve has lost its airtightness and that it simply needs to be replaced. This is generally an easy fix as well, but if a professional plumber is required, he or she may come out and assist you. There is an excessive amount of pressure in your tank. Steam is produced by the hot water in your tank, which causes pressure to rise in the container. A buildup of pressure in the tank may cause water to seep out through loose pieces or microscopic breaches in the tank’s walls. There are a handful of approaches that may be taken to remedy this. In the first instance, you may always just lower the pressure by turning on the pressure release valve. Alternatively, you can reduce the water temperature, which may result in a reduction in steam and, consequently, a reduction in pressure inside the tank
Your tank’s valves are malfunctioning. The pressure relief valve or drain valve may be malfunctioning, and this is the most likely cause. When changing the t p valve, we recommend that you dial down the pressure first
There may be a problem with the internal tank if the pressure is too high. Your hot water heater really has two shells, which you may not have realized at the time. The inner shell is responsible for holding the water, while the outer shell is responsible for keeping the water insulated. On occasion, there may be an internal tank leak that is not immediately apparent from the outside. You’re stuck with an old hot water heater if this happens
There’s nothing you can do but replace it completely. Your water tank is not designed to survive indefinitely. It is subjected to wear and tear, and the longer it is in use, the more probable it is that it will begin to leak water. It’s important to remember that overusing your hot water heater simply raises your chances of experiencing a leak. It’s not much you can do if your tank is reaching the end of its useful life
The only option is to replace the unit. It is estimated that a water heater will survive anywhere from 15 to 20 years on average, however this is only a rough guideline.)
There is an excessive amount of silt in the tank. Another option is that you’ve gathered an excessive amount of silt at the bottom of your water storage tank. Frequently, this silt will clog the entire system, and it may even contaminate the water supply. Furthermore, if the silt remains at the bottom of the tank for an extended period of time, it has the potential to erode the bottom of the tank’s column. Your water heater may begin to leak as a result of this. Cleaning your tank on a yearly basis might help you avoid this unfortunate outcome. Otherwise, the only option is to replace the water heater, as you have a fractured storage tank in your home. Some water heaters are equipped with storage tanks that are walled with glass. They gather warm water and disperse it throughout the house as required. Minerals and sediment can accumulate over time, resulting in a build-up. Once again, this might indicate that the heater is leaking. You’ll probably need to replace your water heater if you find water leaking from the tank’s glass-lined interior.

Although these aren’t the only possible reasons of a hot water heater leak, they should serve as a reminder of just how many things influence the operation of your water heater. Now that we’ve reviewed some of the possible reasons of a leaky water heater, let’s move on to the measures you may take to resolve the problem.

What to Do when Your Water Heater is Leaking

Keep the following points in mind as you attempt to analyze your water heater leak in the safest manner possible.

Step One: Turn Off the Water

Unless you switch off the water supply, your water heater will just leak for the rest of its life. Turn off the water to allow yourself some breathing room as you look into the situation. You can accomplish this by shutting off the main water supply to your home, but it is more convenient to switch off the water supply to your water heater by using the specialized shutoff valve that is located near the water heater. There are a handful of various shapes and sizes that this valve may take:

If you have a gate-style valve (that is, a valve with a rotating wheel), all you have to do is spin it as far clockwise as you possibly can. Ensure that the handle on a ball-style valve is fully turned 180 degrees before closing it.

Take note that if the shutoff valve is not functioning properly, you will have no choice but to turn off the main water supply to your home or business.

Step Two: Turn Off the Power Supply

It is vital that you cut off the power supply before you begin working on your hot water heater to guarantee your safety. The procedure for doing so will differ depending on whether your hot water heater is a gas or an electric kind. In the case of a gas water heater Locate the gas shut-off valve, which should be located on the gas line that is connected to the tank and should be closed. Please keep in mind that gas may be quite dangerous, and if you aren’t sure what you’re doing here, it may be best to call in a professional plumber for assistance.

Step Three: Find Out Where the Leak is Coming From

The next stage in the procedure is to determine where the leak in your water heater is coming from. The best course of action for heater leaks will be determined by the location of the leaks and the severity of the leakage. Here’s what we’d recommend doing in this situation:

Check the inlet and outflow first, then the rest of the system. These are the locations where the water heater’s pipes connect to the tank. Most of the time, these are the locations where you’re most likely to encounter a hot water heater leak. Depending on the situation, the problem may be as simple as a loose fitting, in which case a pipe wrench will enough to address the problem by tightening up the fittings to stop the leaks. Check the t p valve for proper operation. Lies around the pressure relief valve, also known as the t p valve, are another typical source of water leakage. We recommend that you check the thermostat to make sure the temperature isn’t too high
If the water is too hot, it might cause pressure to build up in the system, which can lead to water heater leaks. Additionally, you may want to check the general water pressure in your home, since low water pressure might cause problems with the t p valve. Note: What temperature should you set your water heater at is a separate question. The temperature of most water heaters is set by default at 140 degrees Fahrenheit, however the Department of Energy recommended that it be kept at 120 degrees. Anywhere in this range is likely to be satisfactory. It is recommended that the inbound water pressure be no more than 80 pounds per square inch (PSI).
Check the bottom of the tank for any leaks. if the leaks are not coming from your t p valve, the bottom of the tank should be investigated next. A word of caution: Water that seeps from the tank’s t p valve or an intake may occasionally flow down the tank’s side and pool at its bottom, giving the impression that the water heater tank has a leak when in fact it does not. However, if you are able to determine that the water heater tank is leaking, it is most likely due to a fracture in the unit. In order to handle the leak, you will need to have a new water heater installed
However, this is not something that can be remedied. Make that the drain valve is working properly. Another item to look for is a clogged drain valve if the problem isn’t with an intake, with a pressure relief valve, or with the tank itself. This should be positioned near the bottom of the tank, and it should be completely closed when not in use. Perhaps a warped washer within the valve is the source of your water heater’s leak
If this is the case, it may be as simple as replacing the washer.

In order to properly diagnose water heater leaks, you should consider the following factors. If your water heater leaks, you should consider the following troubleshooting methods, which should be followed whether you are repairing or replacing the water heater:

Additional Questions About Repairing Water Heater Leaks

Is there anything more you’d want to know about how to deal with water heater leaks? Here are a few responses to frequently asked questions. Q: How long do you expect your water heater to last? Traditional tank-style water heaters have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, depending on how well they are maintained. Newer versions are constructed to last even longer, with some expected to last for up to 20 years or more in good condition. According to a reasonable rule of thumb, if your unit is acting up and it is less than 10 years old, there is almost certainly a cost-effective solution to fix it.

Q: What is the optimal temperature for my water heater?
Once again, the Department of Energy recommends 120 degrees as a smart, safe, and energy-efficient temperature setting for your thermostat.
We wouldn’t go much higher than that, but we could.
A problem with the water heater is likely to be the cause of your hot water running out too quickly and having to be replaced with cold water.
A skilled plumber can assist you in diagnosing and resolving the situation.
Be alert for a reduction in water flow in addition to water pooling around your unit or flowing down its sides.
Q: Is it a good idea to acquire a tankless water heater?
Tankless types are often a little more expensive, and they’re best suited for people who have natural gas available in their houses.
You may ask your plumber to go through the advantages and disadvantages of each kind of water heater in further detail.
Some homeowners may be concerned about whether or not it is genuinely safe for them to operate on their own water heater.

It should be entirely OK to make some basic repairs if you are comfortable cutting off the electricity or gas supply beforehand. However, if you are at all apprehensive about dealing with electricity, gas, or water, you should seek the assistance of a professional.

What to Look for in a Water Heater Repair Company

The decision to hire a professional plumber to work on your water heater should be made carefully, and it is essential that you do your homework beforehand. Google reviews, recommendations from family and friends, as well as BBB ratings, may all be used to verify that you get a competent and trustworthy plumber. When selecting a plumber to repair your water heater leaks, there are certain specific characteristics to look for:

Choose a plumbing firm that has a strong dedication to customer service, as evidenced by a substantial number of positive internet evaluations. Check to see that the plumbing firm you hire is licensed, insured, and bonded before hiring them. Additionally, seek for a firm that is recognized by the Better Business Bureau, involved with the local Chamber of Commerce, and has a positive reputation in the community. Ideally, you should look for a plumbing firm that has a significant amount of expertise serving your local community. Make certain that the plumbing firm you hire offers you straightforward, up-front pricing that is easy to understand. The fact that they are being sly and dodging the question should be sufficient justification for moving on. When looking for a plumber, look for one who provides emergency maintenance services around the clock, which may be required if your water heater develops a significant leak. Finally, keep in mind the importance of true customer service. If you don’t like the way the plumber communicates with you or answers your inquiries, search for someone else to assist you with your water heater.

Just a few pointers to bear in mind while you search for a professional plumber to address your water heater leak, broken drainage valve, or cracked tank.

Take Care of Your Water Heater

If a homeowner discovers a pool of water spreading around their heater. or discovers that their pipes are only generating cold water. it is the last thing they want to happen. Consider taking a few minutes to investigate and identify the problem if you’ve noticed any issues with your water heater recently. The most common problem is a simple water leak. which you may be able to fix yourself if you have the right tools. Of course, if you’re not confident in your ability to repair your water heater problems, or if the problems are more significant than a simple water leak, you should consider hiring a professional plumber.

No matter if you’re having problems with your gas water heater or your electric water heater, we encourage you to contact Carter’s My Plumber for the assistance you require.