What To Do If Your Hot Water Heater Leaks
Any type of leak, regardless of the size or where it is coming from needs to be taken seriously. Not only can there be a serious problem with the place it is leaking from, but it can cause a lot of damage to the surrounding area. What to do if your hot water heater leaks?
If your hot water heater is leaking, you need to take immediate action. It could be a hint that there is a much bigger problem. It can damage your floors and sub-floors, plus there may be a major problem with the heater itself.
Steps to Take for a Leaking Hot Water Heater
Determine where the leak is coming from
Dry the area so you can find out where the leak is coming from. This will be important.
If it is from the top, you should be able to fix it fairly easily. But it is important to fix it right away, as if it is left, it can seep in and cause electrical damage.
If it is coming from the bottom, this could be more serious. Call a plumber right away to assess the damage.
There could be a small puddle due to condensation, as well.
Turn the Power Off
Once you are sure the water heater is leaking, turn off the main power supply.
If you have an electric water heater switch off the breaker in your circuit breaker box. Water and electricity can be a dangerous combination, so do this before anything else.
If you have a natural gas water heater, find the on/off switch or dial on the exterior of the tank near the bottom
Shut Off the Water
Check all Outer Areas
If you can safely determine that the leak is coming from a drain valve, try tightening the valve yourself. Don’t make it too tight.
Check the water pressure, as well. This is located outside of the house.
Call A Plumber
Unless you know what to look for, call a plumber. It could be coming from a valve, which isn’t likely much of a problem but it could be something much worse.
They will know what to look for and be able to fix it or advise you if you need to fix it or replace it.
Fix or Replace
If your plumber suggests you should replace your hot water heater, they are likely right. There are a few things you should consider when it comes to replacing the heater or having it fixed
Age
If your hot water heater is past its prime, replace it. The cost of having it repaired more and more will soon add up to more than the heater is worth. You may have noticed the heater isn’t working as well as it used to, is costing more, and making strange noises
Not Energy Efficient
If you have noticed that your energy bills have been increasing or that the tank seems to work in overtime, it may need to be replaced. Of course, it is important to keep these items in perfect working order.
Keep them inspected and maintained. If you are not doing that, it may not run as well as it should.
Frequent Repairs
Leaks aside, if your hot water heater has needed to be serviced several times over the past few years, it may be a sign it needs to be replaced. It may be long past its warranty date and in much need of replacement.
Hot Water Heater Care
Having your hot water heater checked annually will keep it in better condition. A professional will be able to determine if there is anything wrong or if there is about to be something that needs attention.
Take care of all your HVAC system and make sure they last a long time. You don’t want them to leave you hanging when you need them most.
We Are Here For You!
If you have any questions call the professionals at Highmark Plumbing and we will be happy to answer them for you. For any heating or plumbing issues visit our sister websites Highmark Heating or Highmark Electrical