Have you noticed water running down your water heater from the top of the unit? Is there a puddle of water around the bottom of the water heater? If so, you may have a water heater leak. Whatever you do, please do not ignore the leak. A small leak can quickly turn into a costly water heater repair.
In the worst case, you may need a water heater replacement. Air Services is a plumbing company in Springfield, MO, that can send a technician to your home to diagnose the water heater problem and provide options for repairing or replacing the water heater in your home.
Age of the Unit Could Cause a Leak
Water heaters can leak for several reasons. One of the common reasons for a leaky water heater is the age of the unit. Most water heaters are designed to operate efficiently for eight to ten years. This estimated lifespan does not mean that newer units cannot experience problems.
However, if your water heater is ten years or older, it may simply be time for a water heater replacement. As water heaters age, the tank can corrode from the inside out, leading to leaks that can’t be repaired. The internal lining wears down over time, making the tank more susceptible to rust and corrosion.
Leaking from the Top of the Tank
If you notice water coming from the top of your water tank, the inlet valve or pressure relief valve could have a leak. You could also have a loose pipe fitting or a corroded anode rod. In some cases, the tank itself could have a hole.
Large leaks can cause significant water damage quickly, so it’s important to address them right away.
If the leak is small, you might want to check to see if you have a loose pipe fitting that you can tighten, but do not over-tighten the fitting. Over-tightening can damage the fitting and make the problem worse. Otherwise, you can contact our office for assistance and advice.
The pressure relief valve is designed to release water if the pressure inside the tank gets too high. If it’s leaking, it might be working as designed, or it might be faulty. A professional can determine which is the case and fix it if needed.
Leaking from the Bottom of the Tank
In most cases, if you see water around the bottom of the tank, you have a leak in the tank or a leaky drain valve. You should be able to tell if the water is coming from the drain valve by inspecting the valve closely. If you do not see a leak around the valve, you can check the bottom of the tank to see if you notice water coming from the tank.
Be very cautious. If you see rust or small leaks around the tank, the tank can be rusting from the inside out, which means the tank could burst. Turn off the water heater and call a plumber immediately. You will likely need a professional to perform a water heater replacement.
A leaking tank is a serious problem that can’t be repaired. Once the tank itself is leaking, it needs to be replaced. Continuing to use a leaking tank is dangerous and can lead to a catastrophic failure that floods your home.
If you’re not sure where the leak is coming from, it’s best to call a professional. They can identify the source of the leak and determine whether it can be repaired or if replacement is necessary.
Other Common Causes of Leaks
While age and tank corrosion are common causes of leaks, there are other issues that can cause water heater leaks. Understanding these can help you identify the problem more quickly.
Temperature and pressure relief valve leaks are common and usually indicate that the valve needs to be replaced. This is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair that can prevent more serious problems.
Loose connections at the top of the water heater can also cause leaks. These are usually easy to fix by tightening the connections, but be careful not to over-tighten them.
Sediment buildup in the bottom of the tank can cause overheating, which can lead to leaks. Regular maintenance, including flushing the tank, can help prevent this problem.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, our technicians can help identify the cause and recommend the best solution. Sometimes the fix is simple, while other times replacement may be the better option.
What to Do When You Discover a Leak
If you discover a water heater leak, the first thing you should do is turn off the water supply to the heater. This will prevent more water from entering the tank and making the leak worse. You should also turn off the power to the unit if it’s electric, or turn off the gas if it’s a gas water heater.
If the leak is large or you see water spreading quickly, you may also want to turn off the main water supply to your home. This will prevent water damage while you wait for a professional to arrive.
Don’t try to repair a leaking water heater yourself unless you’re certain it’s a simple issue like a loose connection. Water heater repairs can be dangerous, especially if you’re dealing with gas or electrical connections. It’s best to leave this work to professionals.
We’ll send a technician to assess the situation and provide options for repair or replacement. The sooner you address the problem, the less damage it can cause.
Solving Water Heater Leaks in Springfield, MO
The plumbers and water heater technicians at Air Services can perform routine water heater maintenance and water heater repairs to help units last longer and perform more efficiently. When you need an expert to provide maintenance, repair, or installation services for your home’s water heater, rely on our fully accredited company of thoroughly trained technicians.
We’ll assess your water heater and determine whether it can be repaired or if replacement is the better option. We’ll explain our findings clearly and help you understand your options so you can make an informed decision.