How do you check if your water heater is leaking? If it is leaking, then what can you do about it? Here’s how to apply some water leak detection techniques to determine if your water heater is leaking, what to do about a leaky heater and reasons why a water heater can leak.
How To Check If A Water Heater Is Leaking
Stand next to the water heater and listen for the sound of dripping water. Listen carefully and then follow the sound until the leak is located. If no water can be found near the water heater or on it, then the leak might be inside the tank.
Inspect the top of the water heater. There are usually tubes and/or pipes that enter the top of the tank. Have a look to see if this is where it’s leaking. The leak may be occurring where the pipes or tubes meet with the entry points.
Inspect the bottom of the water heater, too. If there is a small pool of water under the tank, the chances are the problem is inside of the tank. The valve might be the cause, so check the drain valve to see if there is any water escaping from it.
Reasons A Water Heater Can Leak
Tanks that have been damaged often leak from the inside. If the tank itself is leaking, then the problem is likely coming from within. A component might be leaking, and if that’s the case, then a pool of water will develop under the tank.
Water heaters have a pressure relief valve, and every so often small amounts of water may come out from them. If it’s only happening once in a while, then this is probably nothing to be concerned about. However, if water is constantly coming out of it, then this is a sign of a more serious problem. It also means that the valve might need to be replaced.
Many water heaters have a temperature gauge or valve. This too could be the issue. If it is, then there will likely be water forming near or under the tank.
Finally, pipe joints could be damaged or loose. The joints themselves could be where the leak is coming from. Depending on the make and model of the tank, the pipes or other fittings can be repaired. If they can’t, they will need to be completely replaced.
What To Do If A Water Heater is Leaking
If the leak isn’t severe, then a person might be able to fix it themselves. However, it is advisable to contact a professional who can inspect the water heater to determine if it’s leaking. If a leak is detected, they will let the owner know if a repair can be done or if the water heater needs to be replaced. In some cases, replacing a tank is necessary and more cost-effective in the long run, especially if the water heater is very old or has experienced the same problem before.
It is important to take action quickly when a leak is detected. A water heater that leaks will either need to be repaired or replaced. Ignoring or neglecting the problem won’t do anything. In fact, a leak will become more severe as time goes by, and eventually, it could lead to higher water bills or lead to water damage.
Checking a water heater for leaks is relatively easy, but fixing a leaky water heater isn’t something an unqualified person should do. Whether it’s replacing a water heater or repairing the leak, it’s best to contact a professional. They can get to the bottom of the problem and then recommend whether the water heater should be replaced or repaired.
If you suspect you have a water leak, please call us at Water Leak Detection for a free consultation today on 1300 425 325 or leave an inquiry on our website.
