Having a plumbing issue in your home is never fun, but it can be especially frustrating when you don’t even know what the problem is. One such mystery that Massachusetts homeowners often face is water heater leakage. If you find yourself with a leaking water heater, understanding why this could be happening and how to resolve the issue quickly and safely can save you time and money on costly repairs or replacements. In this blog post, we will explain why your water heater may be leaking and provide helpful tips for resolving the issue.
In this article:
1. Signs That Your Water Heater is Leaking
2. Causes of a Leaking Water Heater
3. Steps to Take When Your Water Heater is Leaking
4. Tips for Preventing Future Issues With Your Water Heater
5. FAQs About Why Your Water Heater May Be Leaking
Signs That Your Water Heater Is Leaking
There are several signs that can indicate a water heater is leaking. The most obvious are:
- Water pooling around the base of the water heater or a consistent presence of water on the floor; it is a clear indication of a leak.
- Another sign is dampness or moisture on the walls or nearby pipes.
- You may also notice a decrease in hot water supply or fluctuating water temperatures.
- If you see rust or corrosion on the tank or pipes, it can be a sign of leakage.
- Unusual sounds like dripping or hissing noises coming from the water heater are additional warning signs.
Any of these signs should prompt you to inspect your water heater for leaks and consider seeking professional assistance to address the issue promptly.
Top Causes Of A Leaking Water Heater
Leaking water heaters can be caused by a variety of issues, including:
- loose connections,
- broken pipes,
- or other structural damage.
- corrosion or rusting of the tank from within leading to a leak,
- a cracked tank due to age and/or temperature fluctuations,
- and/or an overpressure valve that is not functioning properly.
Steps to Take When Your Water Heater is Leaking
If you notice that your water heater is leaking, the first thing you should do is:
- Turn off the water and gas supply to it.Keeping the system turned off until a professional has had an opportunity to inspect the unit will help prevent further damage.
- Secondly, if possible, try to locate the source of the leak and assess whether it can be repaired or if a replacement is needed.
- If you can do so safely, turn off any electrical nearby that may be affected. Do this at your electrical panel and not at the source of the leak. If you have a leak in your basement near your electrical panel, do not attempt to turn off your electrical. If you are unsure, do not touch any electronics.
- If you are unable to locate the source of the leak, it is best to call in an experienced plumbing technician who can assess and repair the issue quickly and safely.
Tips For Preventing Future Issues With Your Water Heater
The key to avoiding water heater leakage is proper maintenance. Regularly draining the tank, checking for rust or corrosion, and testing pressure valves will go a long way in preventing major issues. It is also important to keep an eye out for any signs of wear and tear on the system as well as any plumbing problems that may arise. Additionally, having your water heater inspected by a professional at least once every two years can help keep it running smoothly and safely.
FAQs About Your Water Heater
How long do water heaters last?
Common causes of water heater leaks include corrosion or rusting of the tank from within, a cracked tank due to age and/or temperature fluctuations, and an overpressure valve that is not functioning properly.
Are water heaters hard to replace?
Replacing a water heater is no DIY project, and can require skills from electrical, plumbing, and hvac. Additionally, it is wise to ask professionals whether it is the right time to upgrade or downgrade your existing water heater, or replace it with an on-demand water heater system altogether.
Do you need to maintain water heaters?
You do, and the most important maintenance task is to annually drain your water heater and flush the sediment.
Call On Professionals You Can Trust
At Home Mechanics, our team of plumbing professionals can help with all your hot water heater maintenance needs. Our experienced technicians can quickly diagnose the issue and provide an accurate assessment of the needed repairs or replacements. We use only the highest quality parts and materials to ensure your peace of mind that all repairs will be reliable and lasting. If you're in the Massachusetts area and need assistance with your leaking water heater, call us at 978-389-3568 to schedule a service call.