The average water heater uses 20% of your home's energy supply, so it could cost you if it isn't working correctly and leaking.
Acting fast after suspecting a leak in your water tank will save you time and money.
Begin by finding the cause for your water heater leaking by reviewing these common problems.
Old Water Tank
Most water heaters last about 10 years, so if yours is pushing past a decade, then the cause of the leak could be old age.
Wear and tear happens over time and leads to corrosion and rust. Finding a leak in an old water heater means contacting a water heater installation company in Hamilton, like Tiger Plumbing. It is a clear sign that you need a new water heater.
Excess Water Pressure
There are many types of water heaters, and they all handle a lot of pressure to warm your water. However, there is a chance that your unit isn't releasing enough excess water pressure.
When pressure builds up, this can lead to cracks in your water heater, which may be the cause of your water heater leaking.
Relief Valve Malfunction
The water pressure may cause the crack that leads to a water leak, but the reason for the trapped pressure is what requires fixing.
That is why you need to get your pressure relief valve checked. It may need tightening or be replaced if it is not releasing steam from the high temperatures inside your tank.
Loose Drain Valve
Even a small leak can cause water damage in homes. One reason only a little water leaks from your water heater is that the drain valve is too loose.
Water goes in and out of your tank all day, releasing and refilling. Doing this for years may slowly loosen the valve. Tightening the valve will solve your leak problem.
Also, regularly clean your drains by Tiger Plumbing to keep them from getting clogged and loosening up.
Crack in Water Heater
One of the most common reasons for replacing a water heater is that it has a crack in it. 75% of water heaters will break by the 12-year mark from instances such as cracks.
For instance, a sediment build-up in your tank will eventually make cracks in the surface. Keeping a water heater maintenance schedule for cleaning this debris will keep your unit intact longer.
What to Do If Your Water Heater Leaking
A water heater leak is a serious problem that could eventually break your unit or lead to water damage. To prevent further issues with your water heater, call one of our professionals to inspect your tank, valves, and connections.
Contact Tiger Plumbing today if you suspect a leak in your water heater for an estimate.
