Why is My Water Heater Leaking?
You can thank your water heater for that hot shower and those clean clothes. But if you have a traditional gas or electric tank, there’s a good chance it could leak at some point. If well maintained, the water heater could last you a good 8 to 12 years. But even then, things can go wrong. Your trusty water heater could fail you for a variety of reasons. If you experience a leak, it could be from one of the following causes.
Reason 1: A Faulty Drain Valve
The drain valve is located at the bottom of the tank. If the leak is coming from there, it’s likely that it has come loose and simply needs to be tightened. If that still doesn’t correct the issue, the drain valve may need to be replaced. Thankfully this can be done quickly and inexpensively.
Reason 2: A Broken Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
Just like with the drain valve, a leaky T/P valve is another sign that your water heater needs a simple repair. This valve is located at the top of the tank and is responsible for maintaining the temperature and pressure. If you see a leak that comes from the top and drips down the side, this could be the culprit. If the valve is broken, a straightforward replacement could be the answer.
However, it’s important to have a licensed plumber diagnose the issue because there may be something more serious going on. When a properly functioning T/P valve leaks, it may be warning you that the pressure in the tank is too high.
Reason 3: Loose Inlet and Outlet Connections
Located at the top of the water heater, the inlet and outlet connections are the two pipes that bring cold water in and let hot water out. When these start to drip or pour out water, they may need to be tightened or replaced if they’re old and worn out. This is good news for you because the repair is fast and low-cost.
Reason 4: Corrosion From Sediment Build-Up
The most common cause for a water heater leak also happens to be the most costly. When an old water heater begins leaking from the bottom, it has probably reached its expiration date. Over time, sediment builds up at the bottom, causing corrosion. This unfortunately cannot be fixed. But no need to worry, a trusted plumber can remove your old heater and replace it with a new, shiny one that could save you money in the long run. New heaters are more energy efficient, especially if it’s a tankless system.
Stephens Plumbing Can Figure Out Why Your Water Heater is Leaking
With more than 30 years of experience, Stephens Plumbing will have no problem getting to the bottom of your water heater leak. Our highly qualified technicians and plumbers can easily diagnose your problem and offer a solution that works for you. Our water heater services include repair, replacement, and installation for any kind of system, including gas, electric and tankless. If your water heater is leaking, call Stephens Plumbing today.