General Tips for Leaking Water Heaters

Most of our repairs revolve around leaking water heaters. A leaking water heater is a serious issue, even if the leak appears minor. Functioning water heaters should not leak, and a leak can be indicative of a larger or imminent issue. We are happy to take care of any issues with your water heater, but there are some issues you may be able to tackle on your own.

Identify Leaking
The first thing you need to do is to identify any leaking. Make it a point to regularly check your water heater for leaking, “knocking,” or other issues. Many issues are easier to tackle if they are caught early on, rather than waiting until you have a major leak or total lack of hot water. If you do identify leaking, note the location of the leaking. Is water pooling at the base? Slowly dripping from valves? Only when the hot water is engaged? It’s important to know where it’s coming from.

Leaking Tank
A leaking tank is usually a sign of corrosion. Look for rust around the tank, or drain some water from the valve and look for rusty sediment. If your water heater is corroded, the only option is replacement, as yours has probably lived it’s life. Low Price Water Heaters is ready to find you the perfect replacement for your needs.

Leaking Pressure Relief Valve
If there is consistent leaking coming from a pressure relief valve, this means your water heater is trying to release too much pressure from the tank. It’s usually the result of temperature being too high, or the tank being too full when the hot water expands up. The valve itself may be faulty, which is relatively easy to replace. If either of these appear too complicated or you want to be sure, Low Price Water Heaters can come give consultation or repair as needed.

Dripping Drain Valve
Sometimes the drain valve isn’t properly secured, or it was bumped or adjusted without your knowing. Simply tightening the valve could fix the problem. If it still drips, you may need to buy a replacement valve and replace it yourself. Or of course our experts can do that for you.

Condensation
Some condensation is normal for an operating water heater. Keep an eye on condensation on the tank or small amounts of water pooling at the base. You may check the vent of a gas water heater for obstruction, and be sure there is clear air space surrounding your water heater for ventilation. If you fear the condensation is too much, give us a call.

Keeping an eye on your water heater can help everything run smoothly and problems can be avoided before they derail your hot showers. Give Low Price Water Heaters a call!

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