It is common for an old water heater to stop operating smoothly once it has reached the end of its lifespan. Loose valves, internal tank corrosion, faulty valves and deteriorated anode rods can lead to water heater leaks. When this happens, it is best to look for other signs of leaks to prevent further damage. If you think your water heater is not yet ready for a replacement, perform regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. When unsure, ask help from a professional to detect the problem before it escalates.
Believe it or not, your water heater can convert into a dangerous appliance if not handled properly. To avoid fatal accidents, shut down the heating source of your unit prior to inspecting it. Keep in mind that mixing water and electricity can put your life at risk. If you want to stop the leaks temporarily, simply turn off the cold water supply valve. Always take safety into account and ensure to be in a safe environment during the repair process.
Oftentimes, some water heaters leak easily as soon as it is turned on. However, there is no need to panic since this is a common problem among heating systems. Your unit may be experiencing condensation, where cold water is mixed with hot water inside the tank. Solve the problem by turning the water heater on and wait until it starts heating. Expect water to stop leaking after a couple of minutes.
There are times when you find the temperature and pressure relief valve leaking. At times like this, you may have a faulty T&P valve or the temperature of your unit is set too high. Having a temperature higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit can be dangerous to your household, causing your tank to overheat or explode. Replace the relief valve as soon as it stops working to avoid unfortunate mishaps.
Loose pipe fittings can also lead to water heater leaks. Look for signs of rust stains around the fittings to know where water starts leaking. You can either tighten the piping with a wrench or replace them if they are badly damaged. It helps using a Teflon tape or sealant around the threading to prevent water from leaking. It is wise to take immediate action once you have a leaky pipe to avoid affecting other areas of your tank.
If your tank has been hit by rust and corrosion, then you might consider buying a replacement unit anytime soon. These sediments can affect the heating efficiency, water quality and smooth operation of your unit. Having rusty and smelly water will do you no good, especially if it can bring serious health complications to your family. It is said that using water softeners only leads to rust and corrosion development in the long run. Protect your family from ingesting germ-filled water by flushing and draining it regularly.
Letting sediments sit inside the tank for a long time can result to water heater holes. Upon reaching this point, you might want to ask help from a specialist since your tank is beyond repair. Some homeowners prefer to patch these holes for an inexpensive repair. However, doing this only increases their electric costs, since their unit will be using more energy to heat water. Ask help from a specialist if you have plans of replacing your water heater.
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