Access to hot water is something many of us take for granted, but when we don’t have it, we quickly notice. For this reason, it’s important to keep your water heater in great condition by prioritizing routine maintenance and prompt repairs, as well as recognizing when those repairs are needed.
Before a water heater can be repaired, it’s important to understand what caused the problem in the first place. For instance, a leaky water heater can cause a wide range of problems throughout your home. Here are several common causes of a leaky water heater to keep in mind:
- Internal Corrosion – Corrosion inside of the water heater tank is one of the most common reasons for leaks. It may occur because of the unit’s age, sediment buildup, or the natural breakdown of the unit’s lining. When the internal corrosion occurs, cracks form in the tank, leading to a leaky water heater.
- Loose Drain Valve – The drain valve allows you to empty the tank and flush out sediment, but its continuous usage over the years can cause it to become loose, which means water can leak out.
- High Water Pressure – As your water heater increases the water’s temperature, it naturally increases the pressure as well. However, too much pressure can push water out of the heater through any cracks.
- Loose Connections – If the inlet and outlet connections get loose over time, you may find yourself dealing with a leaky water heater. The connections will need to be inspected and tightened.
If you have a leaky water heater, contact our team at A Step Above Plumbing Inc. for repairs.