Is your water heater leaking? That’s not exactly a pleasant kind of surprise, is it? The good news is that an experienced plumber should be able to fix the leak quickly. But it’s crucial not to neglect a water heater leak because it can lead to significant and costly property damage. In this article, we’ll cover why your water heater may be leaking and what you can do to solve the problem fast.
Why Is Your Water Heater Leaking?
Some of the most common causes of a leaking water heater are:
- Drain valve problems: This is likely the case if you notice water leaking from the tank’s bottom. A valve replacement will solve the problem.
- Tank corrosion: When sediment builds up in the tank, the result can be corrosion which causes cracking and holes. When water leaks through, it’s time for water heater replacement.
- Loose water connections: As the water tank ages, wear and tear can cause the water lines to loosen, which causes leaking. In most cases, a professional plumber can tighten or replace the loose water lines to stop the leak.
- Issues with the pressure and temperature valves: When these valves malfunction, they can result in leaks from the sides of the tank. Schedule service to determine if a valve replacement will solve the problem.
5 Steps to Take If You Notice a Water Heater Leak
Now that you know the potential causes of a water heater leak, what should you do if you notice water pooling around the tank?
Here are four steps to protect your property from water damage and restore proper water heater functionality as quickly as possible:
- Turn off the energy source immediately. As soon as you notice a leak, cut the power leading to the water heater.
- Turn off the water. Find the water line leading to your water heater. Once you locate the valve, turn it clockwise until it closes.
- Drain the water heater tank. While it can seem like a pain, draining the water tank is essential to prevent water damage when the tank malfunctions. If you would rather not mess with it, contact a trusted local plumber right away to drain the tank for you.
- Call your local plumber ASAP. If you didn’t already call the plumber on the last step, now is the time to do it. A licensed, insured plumber will be able to diagnose your leaking water heater and provide a fast, effective fix.
Progressive Plumbing Is Here to Solve Your Water Heater Leak
Don’t let a leaking water heater stress you out! At Progressive Plumbing, we are here to help you identify and solve the plumbing problem so you can get back to life as usual. Contact us now to schedule service if your water heater is leaking.
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