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Here is a list of common types of water heater leaks you should know
From warm showers to laundry and clean dishes, water heaters play an imperative role in our daily life. Most water heaters can be used for years without needing repairs or replacements. However, the most common issue that develops with years of wear and tear is water leakage. Let’s discuss different types of heater leaks and their causes.
Types Of Water Heater Leaks
- When a home’s water heater leaks, the consequences are often serious leaving you in difficult situations. If the leaks are left unattended for a long duration, water damage resulting in ruined floors and walls is likely.
Knowing different types of leaks and water heater maintenance tips can help you find the right ways to fix them thus saving time and money.
Water Heater Nipple Leaks
- A water heater usually has two nipples on top of it. These nipples are used to connect the cold and hot water line to the heater. The thinnest part of this junction is liable to leak over time. If you detect leaks in this area of the water heater use a pipe wrench to remove the damaged nipples.
Replace the damaged parts to stop the water from leaking. Purchasing new nipples to replace them with damaged ones will eliminate the problem.
Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve Leaks
- If the water heater begins to leak near the temperature and pressure relief valve it indicates a critical issue with the water heater. This valve only leaks due to an underlying problem. Sometimes overheating can cause the temperature and pressure relief valve to leak. When the water in the tank is allowed to reach a high temperature, pressure begins to build up inside the heater. The pressure valve begins to release water to alleviate this pressure thus causing the water heater to leak.
A loose valve on the tank can also result in a hot water leak. This problem can be fixed by lowering the temperature and tightening the loose valve. However, if this does not work you need the help of a professional plumber.
Drain Valve Leaks
- A drain valve is present at the bottom of the water heater. Sometimes after draining the water heater, we fail to close the drain valve properly. This could result in a leaky drain valve. However, drain valve leaks are easiest to fix, a hose cap can be used to cap the drain valve.
If the damage is beyond repair simply replace the drain valve. Drain valves do not cost much and are easy to install.
Water Supply Line Leaks
If you observe water near the water heater on the floor, check the water supply lines. Damaged or loose supply lines located above the water tank are usually the culprits behind such leaks. Even a small crack in the water supply line can result in water drips. Before stressing over the leaky heater, inspect the supply line to confirm if it’s damaged.
If you discover the cause of the leak, shut off the water supply before taking any steps for repair or replacement of the piping.
Damage To The Tank
- Damage to the water tank can also result in water heater leaks. This type of leak occurs when the heater is old. The years of sediment collection at the bottom can cause corrosion to take place at the base of the tank thus resulting in leaks. This problem can be prevented by draining the water heater to remove the sediments. However, once the tank corrodes, tank replacement becomes inevitable. Such leaks are pricier to fix.
If you are experiencing water heater leaks and you are not sure what’s causing them. It’s time to call the pros. Our professionals at Proline Plumbing can repair your water heater. We are operating in Houston, Texas. Call us at 832-772-5501.
