Do you notice water dripping or leaking from your water heater? Are you not sure what to do next? Don’t worry, you are not alone.
A leaking water heater can be stressful, but there are simple steps you can take right away to handle the problem. In most cases, the quicker you act, the better you can protect your home from water damage. Even a small leak can turn into a bigger issue if ignored.
If you live in Severn and you are dealing with a leaking water heater, this guide will give you the support and direction you need. And if it turns out you need help from a professional, we will also share where you can find trusted services for water heater repair in Severn. So, if you want to learn, keep reading.
What is Causing My Water Heater to Leak?
Your water heater could leak for several different reasons. Some of the most common include:
- Loose Valves or Connections: Sometimes, a fitting or pipe might come loose over time.
- Old Tank: If your water heater is more than 10 years old, the tank may be starting to rust or crack.
- High Pressure: Too much pressure in the tank can cause leaks.
- Drain Valve Issue: This valve at the bottom of your tank could be faulty or loose.
- Internal Tank Damage: Over time, minerals from water can build up and damage the inside of the tank.
What Should You Do Right Away If Your Water Heater Is Leaking?
Finding a water leak around your water heater can be scary, but don’t panic. Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to help you handle the situation safely as well as calmly:
#Step 1: Turn Off the Power Supply
First, make sure to switch off the power to the water heater before doing anything else. This keeps you safe as well as prevents any electrical issues.
- If your heater is electric, switch off the breaker.
- If it is gas, turn the gas valve to “off.”
#Step 2: Stop the Water Supply
Now that the power is off, you need to stop the water from flowing into the tank. This prevents more water from leaking out.
- Find the pipe that carries cold water to the heater’s top.
- There should be a handle or valve on that pipe.
- Turn the valve right and stop when it can’t move. This shuts off the water going into the heater.
- Once the water is turned off, empty the tank to reduce pressure and stop more water from leaking.
#Step 3: Find Where the Leak is Coming From
Now that the tank is empty and safe to check, try to figure out where the water is coming from.
- Look around the top, sides, and bottom of the tank.
- Is the leak coming from a pipe or the tank itself?
When to Call a Professional
If the leak is from a valve or pipe, it might be a quick fix. But if the leak is coming from the tank, the whole unit may need to be replaced. That’s when you should call an expert for water heater repair in Severn.
Trying to fix a leaking tank yourself can be dangerous and may cost more in the long run. A licensed technician can safely inspect the unit, repair it if possible, or help you install a new one.
How to Prevent Future Leaks
Nobody wants to deal with a leaking water heater. The good news is, you can do a few simple things to help prevent leaks from happening in the first place. Let’s go through them one by one:
- Regular Maintenance: Have your water heater checked once a year.
- Flush the Tank: Doing this once every few months can help prevent buildup inside.
- Check the Pressure: A pressure relief valve helps control this. Make sure it Is working right.
Final Thoughts
If your water heater is leaking or not working the way it should, don’t wait for things to get worse. At Rocky HVAC LLC, we are here to help you stay safe and comfortable. Our friendly and skilled team can quickly find the problem and fix it the right way, without any stress or hassle.
So, what are you waiting for? Call us today and let us handle your water heater worries. We’re just a phone call away and always ready to help!