Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Why Is Your Water Heater Leaking

By Brian Winters


If you have an old water heater, expect it to stop operating soon since it has reached its timely end. Water heater leaks can be caused by several factors like loose and faulty valves, rust and corrosion development and poor condition of the anode rod. At times like this, it is best to recognize other possible areas of leak to avoid further damage. Performing regular water heater maintenance helps a lot to keep your tank in tip-top shape. When in doubt, get advice from a specialist to prevent worsening the situation.

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 leaks start from the T&P valve. This happens when the temperature inside the tank is too high or your relief valve may be malfunctioning. Experts recommend not setting the temperature above 120 degrees Fahrenheit since doing so can causes your tank to overheat or worse, blow up. Avoid dangerous accidents by replacing the relief valve as soon as possible.

If you have loose pipe fittings, encountering leaks is inevitable. Stop water from leaking by wrapping a Teflon tape around the threading and tighten it in place. Do not over tighten the fittings to avoid further damage. Badly damaged pipes should be replaced immediately to prevent rust stains from developing.

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.

Excessive sediments and hard water minerals inside can eat away your internal components, eventually creating holes in the long run. At this point, get help from a specialist since performing repairs are no longer possible. Patching holes may be inexpensive; however, it will only cost you more on your electric bill in the future. Using a tank with patched holes affects the heating efficiency of your unit, leading to a greater power usage than before. Get professional help when it's time for a replacement water heater.

Repairing a leaking water heater is easy if you recognize the problem before it's too late. It is wise to maintain your water heater regularly to extend its life by a couple of years. Call in a specialist if you need help in fixing your water heater. This will ensure your safety and protection, knowing that your unit is in good hands.




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