Water Heater Leaks: Causes and Solutions
Did you approach your water heater only to discover that the hot water heater has a leak? Don’t let water heater leaks ruin your day. Instead, handle the situation and learn the different possible causes so you can prevent water leaks in the future. You’ll also learn the best ways to handle a leaking water heater.
Common Causes For Water Heater Leaks
Knowing the cause of your water heater problem can help you take the right steps to fix it and prevent it in the future. Here are some of the most common causes for water heater leaks.
#1. Open/Faulty Drain Valve
A drain valve at the bottom of the tank allows water to evacuate the water heater. In most instances, the drain valve remains closed. You will open the drain valve to perform maintenance on the unit or to replace the unit. If you leave the drain valve open, water will leak from it.
Sometimes, the drain valve may leak even if you don't leave it open, especially if sediment buildup and other debris prevent the drain valve from fully closing. In this case, you will need to clean or replace the drain valve.
#2. High Pressure Levels
Hot water heaters generate pressure. When pressure levels get too high, the water escapes out the overflow pipe that runs down the outside of the water heater with the help of a temperature and pressure relief valve. The T&P relief valve opens automatically once pressure levels reach a certain level. Pressure and water will escape from the temperature and pressure relief valve out the discharge pipe until the valve closes automatically. (P.S. If you have a tankless water heater, it will still have a T&P relief valve.)
In some cases, the water on the floor can appear similar to a leak from the drain valve. Technically, it’s not a leak, though. It’s the water heater working as it should.
Water pressure levels reach excessive levels for a number of reasons, including: high water temperatures, water hammers, and/or a broken T&P relief valve.
#3. Malfunctioning Water Lines
A cold water inlet connects the cold water supply to the water heater, and a hot water connection at the hot water outlet transports hot water from the water heater to the desired location. Water heater hoses deteriorate over time, creating a leak coming from the hose itself or the pipe connection. Verify that the leak is indeed coming from your water heater hose and then replace the hose to see if that resolves the issue.
To decrease the likelihood of leaking water heater hoses, use high-quality corrugated stainless steel lines with high-quality connectors (such as Sharkbite connectors) whenever possible. Just keep in mind that quick connectors, sometimes known as push-to-connect connectors, may be prohibited by the local plumbing code. Always check your local plumbing code and building codes before picking connecļ»ætors.
#4. Damaged/Corroded Water Tank
Water heater tanks are made up of metal that is typically coated with some type of
corrosion protection
(i.e., glass, enamel, or combination of glass or porcelain and other materials). While strong, metal doesn’t last forever. The material corrodes over time, especially when in contact with moisture and oxygen. Corrosion refers to the natural transformation of metal into rust. When the metal corrodes and turns into rust, it compromises the structural integrity of the material, eventually leading to a leak.
In the case of a water leak coming from the tank and not a connection or valve, you will most likely need a new water heater.
#5. Condensation
Sometimes water coming from your water heater isn’t necessarily a leak but condensation. Condensation occurs when hot air comes into contact with cool air. The result is water droplets. Generally, condensation appears evenly on the outside of the unit itself. While not as damaging as a leak, the excess moisture can still cause water damage. The best way to prevent condensation is to utilize a fan and open nearby windows to promote proper air circulation.
How to Prevent Water Heater Leaks
Sometimes the best offense is a good defense. Learn some of the best ways to prevent water heater leaks.
Get Regular Preventative Maintenance
Just like a car, you need to maintain your water heater throughout its life. Preventative maintenance involves inspecting and cleaning the water heater. This will keep the water heater running efficiently for as long as possible.
Change Anode Rod
The sacrificial
anode rod
inside your water heater tank takes on corrosive material in place of the actual tank. However, the anode rod corrodes over time, leaving the tank vulnerable again. At this point, you need to change the anode rod or allow the tank to deteriorate. On average, you will change out the anode rod every 3 - 5 years. Every new anode rod should be
inspected after 3 years and annually thereafter
until the condition of the anode rod dictates its replacement.
Reduce Pressure Levels
Hot water heaters generate pressure, but the tank can only withstand so much pressure. Pressure levels increase as temperature levels increase. Therefore, it’s best not to set the water heater higher than
120 degrees.
Excessive pressure levels can also occur as a result of sediment buildup impacting the components inside of the unit or water hammers.
Leaking Water Heater FAQs
U.S. Water Heating Solutions
When you have a leaky water heater, contact U.S. Water Heating Solutions for fast, reliable water heater service! We will provide a proper diagnosis and proceed with the most appropriate water heater repair. We even have the most commonly requested parts in our trucks, contributing to expedited service.
Contact us today regarding diagnosis, repair, or replacement of your leaking water heater.
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