Too often, homeowners don’t give much thought to the water heater until something goes wrong. A common question we hear from homeowners is: “why is my water heater leaking?” If your water heater is leaking, that’s definitely something to worry about! Mission Mechanical takes a look at why water heaters leak, and what you need to know about repair or replacement.
Why Is My Water Heater Leaking?
There could be many common reasons behind a hot water heater leak. Here are a few of the most likely issues as well as their repair or replacement solutions:
Old Water Heater Tank
One of the most common issues with older tank water heaters is leaks. These can be caused by a variety of factors, but the most common culprit is age. Most tank water heaters have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, and after that point, they are more susceptible to corrosion and wear and tear. The best solution at this point is to replace the water heater.
Leaky Drain Valve
A faulty drain valve is one of the most common causes of a leaky water heater. The drain valve is responsible for releasing water from the tank when it needs to be drained, such as when the tank is being serviced or replaced. Over time, the valve can become worn out or corroded, which can cause it to leak. In most cases, the leak can be fixed by simply replacing the valve. For water heater repair services, reach out to the licensed plumbers at Mission Mechanical.
Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve Issues
The temperature and pressure relief valve is a vital safety feature on any water heater. Its purpose is to open and release water if the temperature or pressure inside the tank gets too high. This helps to prevent the tank from exploding. However, if the valve is defective, it may not close properly, causing water to leak out. In many cases, the leak can be repaired by simply tightening the valve. If that doesn’t work, then the valve will need to be replaced.
Inlet & Outlet Leaks
One of the most common causes of a leaky water heater is loose or damaged piping. The inlet and outlet connections are particularly vulnerable, as they are constantly under pressure from the water flowing into and out of the tank. Over time, this can cause the connections to loosen, leading to leaks. In some cases, simply tightening the connections may be enough to stop the leak. However, if the piping is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Cracked Tank
A water heater is a metal tank that heats up water and stores it until it’s needed. Over time, the tank can develop cracks, which can lead to leaks. It’s important to determine the source of the leak. If the leak is coming from a crack in the storage tank, then you’ll need to replace the entire water heater.
Bad Anode Rod
An anode rod is a metal rod that is inserted into a water heater in order to prevent corrosion. The anode rod sacrifices itself to corrosion in order to protect the tank. Over time, the anode rod will corrode and need to be replaced. If the anode rod has been consumed, water may leak from the space where it should fit, and a new anode rod can be installed. If the tank has suffered corrosion damage due to the lack of an anode rod, it’s best to replace the entire water heater because the leaks are most likely coming from the damaged tank.
Contact Mission Mechanical for Water Heater Repair and Replacement Services
Water heater leaks can cause serious water damage in your home. If you’ve been wondering why your water heater is leaking, it’s important to address them right away. Contact us today to schedule a repair or replacement for your water heater.
