Sunday, August 25, 2013

Hot Water Heater Leaking Facts

By Brian Winters


Performing regular water heater maintenance is necessary, knowing that your heating system doesn't last forever. Periodic maintenance helps detect signs of damage in the early stage. Water heater leaks should be dealt with as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Inspect your tank and look for other possible areas of leaks to know if the unit needs a simple repair or a timely replacement.

Check if the damage is beyond any repairs. Observe and detect where the leak is coming from to stop the problem as soon as possible. If the leak is not coming from the internal tank, ask help from a specialist on how to stop water from leaking. Neglecting to address the problem on time may require you to buy a replacement unit sooner than expected.

Always make sure the T&P valve is working properly to release the pressure buildup inside the tank. Having a faulty pressure valve is dangerous, since excessive pressure can cause the tank to overheat or unexpectedly explode. This valve can be found on the side of the storage tank. Test it by lifting and releasing the handle to control the water flow of the unit. If water continues to drip right after closing the valve, then you might have to replace it right away.

Do not forget to turn off the heating source of your unit. Stop water from entering the tank by shutting the cold water supply valve. Doing this prevents accidents from happening, since your water heater can convert into a dangerous appliance. Do not forget to drain the tank to inspect the unit thoroughly. Release pressure and detach the piping at the same time.

Water heater leaks can be prevented if you tighten the pipe fittings as soon as they loosen up. Use a wrench to tighten the fittings and wrap a Teflon tape around the threading to stop water from dripping. If you think your pipes are badly damaged and full of rust stains, replace them as soon as possible.

Check other areas of leaks by looking for rust stains around the tank. However, it is important to care and maintain the water heater right before it corrodes. You can do this by checking the state of your anode rod every now and then. This sacrificial rod is responsible for absorbing all charged water molecules inside to fight against rust and corrosion. When unsure, ask help from a specialist immediately.

If water starts to leak at the bottom of the tank, performing repairs will not do much to solve the problem. Sediments have successfully eaten their way through the tank, resulting to water heater holes. When this happens, expect your water heater to consume more energy as it used to. It's better to buy a replacement unit rather than spending too much money on costly repairs.

These tips can help you deal with water heater leaks. However, attempting to repair your unit without the right tools and knowledge can only worsen the situation. For guaranteed professional help, contact a specialist before it's too late.




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