What to Do When Your Water Heater Leaks
Homeowners rely on water heaters for daily tasks, including cleaning and showering. However, these systems are prone to wear and tear with time, prompting routine maintenance by a professional plumber. Mr. Rooter Plumbing can help if your water heater leaks. While minor damage may not raise concerns, delaying repairs can disrupt your routine and cause severe water damage. Here are vital steps to address a leaking water heater effectively.
Turn Off the Power
Safety is vital before any plumbing project, and water heater repair is no exception. Turn off the power supply to the unit, but if you have an electric water heater, locate your circuit breaker box and flip off the breaker. Gas water heaters are different, as you are required to turn off the gas by rotating the thermostat dial or using the gas shut-off valve near the gas line. If you need professional help to pinpoint your power source, consult a plumber or utility service provider.
Turn Off the Water Supply
Once you cut off the power, stop the water from filling the tank and exacerbate the leak. The shut-off valve is usually above the water heater on the cold inlet pipes. Turn this valve clockwise to close it, but if it is stuck, temporarily shut off the main water supply to your home.
Drain the Tank
The tank may still have water, so attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom and run the other end to a driveway or garden. Open the drain valve to allow the water in the tank to flow out, preventing further leakage and reducing the risk of water damage and subsequent emergency plumbing repair service calls.
Inspect the Source of the Leak
When the tank is drained, scrutinize it to determine the source of the leak. Common culprits include corrosion, faulty or loose plumbing connections, or a malfunctioning temperature and pressure relief valve. If you can’t identify the source of the leak, consider professional help. We leverage extensive expertise to determine the severity and recommend effective solutions, such as a repair or a complete tankless water heater installation.
Fix or Replace the Faulty Parts
If the leak is from a loose connection, tighten it with a wrench. If a valve is leaking, replacing it might resolve the issue. However, if the tank leaks because of corrosion, it is likely time to replace the entire unit. Unless you are experienced with plumbing and water heater maintenance, call a licensed plumbing service for tailored water heater repairs or replacement, ensuring optimum safety and efficiency.
Clean Up and Prevent Future Issues
After addressing the leak, clean up any standing water to prevent mold and mildew. Depending on the amount of water, you might need towels, a mop, or a wet vacuum. We recommend scheduling regular maintenance with a professional plumbing repair service to ensure minor signs of damage don’t get out of hand.
Water heater leaks are a concern, especially if you can’t handle the issue effectively and minimize potential damage to your home. Contact us at Mr. Rooter Plumbing to ensure your home’s safety and the longevity of your appliances. Please schedule a consultation with our plumbing service team for comprehensive services, including tankless water heater installation and maintenance.
