Causes Of Water Heater Leaks And How To Address Them

water-heater-leaking

Did you know your water heater is your home’s second largest energy consumer? It actually takes up 18% of your home’s total energy consumption.

This energy usage is already significant on its own; however, if a water heater leaking problem gets into the picture, you’ll be looking at significantly higher energy and water bills. So, to keep your utility bills in check, always consider a water heater leak seriously. It’s best to know what is causing the leak and how to respond properly to each leak type.

To help you with that, Hardy Plumbing takes the initiative to craft this helpful plumbing guide.

Faulty Pressure Relief Valve

One of the main causes of a leaky water heater is a faulty pressure relief valve. This valve is there to release excess pressure inside the tank. If the valve gets stuck or wears out, it can let water escape where it shouldn’t.

If water drips from the valve or a hissing sound catches your attention, it might be time to replace it. Luckily, replacing the valve is something a plumber can easily do, and it’s a much cheaper fix than replacing the entire heater. Address this issue by calling in a water heater repair plumber for fast results.

Cracked Tank

As your water heater ages, the inside of the tank can start to corrode, and eventually, cracks can form. When this happens, you might notice water pooling around the base of the heater. Sadly, once the tank cracks, there’s no fixing it. It’s usually time for a new water heater if you’re dealing with a cracked tank. Regular maintenance, like flushing the tank to get rid of the sediments, can thwart corrosion, but an old tank often means it’s time for a replacement.

Sediment Buildup

If you’ve got hard water in your area, you’re most likely to experience water heater inefficiencies, like longer heating time, more often. That’s because the minerals in hard water can gradually collect at the bottom of the tank, challenging your unit’s performance.

Flushing the tank at least once a year can help clear out the buildup and keep things running efficiently. If the sediment has already done its damage, you may find it’s time to replace the whole tank to avoid bigger issues, like a permanent breakdown.

Excessive Water Pressure

Another issue that can cause leaks is high water pressure. If the pressure in your home is too high, it can put a lot of strain on your water heater and the pipes connected to it, leading to leaks around the fittings or connections.

To avoid this, you should ensure the water pressure in your home is within a safe range—between 60 and 80 PSI. If it’s too high, a plumber can install a pressure-reducing valve to prevent further leaks and damage.

Loose Connections

If you notice water around the base of your water heater, but the tank itself doesn’t seem to be leaking, the issue could be with the connections. Over time, the pipes that connect to the heater can loosen, especially if they weren’t appropriately tightened during installation. On a positive note, fixing loose connections is usually as simple as tightening them up. But if the connections are cracked or damaged, you may have to call in an expert pipe replacement service.

Water Heater Problems? Go for Hardy Plumbing’s Tested Water Heater Solutions

A leaking water heater can be a huge hassle, but it’s often easier to fix than you might think. From faulty valves to cracked tanks, most water heater issues can be resolved quickly with a little help from the right professional.

If you’re noticing leaks or just want to be proactive, Hardy Plumbing is here to take care of everything for you. From emergency water heater repairs to routine tank flushing, our water heater solutions will guarantee reliable and lasting results!

So, don’t let a small leak turn into a bigger headache. Call Hardy Plumbing today for fast, durable water heater solutions, and we’ll make sure your home stays warm and dry—no leaks allowed!

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