Got a water heater leak? Not sure what to do next. Here are a few tips for identifying the source of a water heater leak and what you can do to remedy the situation–without breaking the bank.
Water Heater Leak Tip No.1: Find the Problem
The first step in repairing a water heater leak is assessing the unit and finding the cause of the leak.
Look around the container to find where the water is leaking from. Many water heater leaks are symptoms of a ruptured water heater tank. (The tank in the heater is a sealed container, probably made from glass.)
If the tank itself is leaking, then it is time to get a new heater. If the leak is instead coming from the piping leading in or out of the container, then that is something you can probably fix on your own.
Note: One of the reasons a water heater may leak is because the fittings are loose. Sometimes the pressure relief valve is leaky and needs replacing.
Water Heater Leak Tip No.2: Prepare for Draining
Once you have identified the problem in the outside water fittings or pressure valve, you need to take steps to shut down and drain the heater.
First, you should gather the things you will need: an adjustable wrench, bucket, dry towels, and plumbing thread.
Next, you need to disconnect the power or gas. If it is electric, switch off the main circuit breaker. Remember to place a note on the box mentioning that there is a project in action so no one accidentally turns it back on.
Shut off the gas by turning the gas dial to the off position. Switch off the water inputs.
Water Heater Leak Tip No.3: Get Inside
Empty the tank into the bucket and dry the fittings with the towels. Now that the tank is empty and secure, you can loosen, reapply the plumbing thread or tape to the pips, and tighten the fittings.
Photo: GoTRISI
Replace the pressure valve if needed. Make sure everything is back in its place before you turn on the water.
Next, test by turning the water inputs on. If nothing is leaking, then you have successfully learned how to repair a water heater leak–and saved yourself a boatload of cash.
Other articles you might like;
- Indirect Water Heater Buying Guide – How Indirect Water Heaters Work | Water Heater Installation
- How To Fix A Water Heater Anode | Hot Water Heater
- How to Fix a Water Heater Anode | Plumbing Information
- DIY Guide to a Water Heater Anode | ProfitEdition
- The DIY Guide to Fixing a Water Heater Leak | Articleuzr.com
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Your site is very good. My gas heater leaked from around the pressure valve which was replaced by a plumber, but is still leaks from the same area but not all the time??? Another plumber said the area around the valve must have hair line cracks that allow the water to come through when under pressure. Any suggestions?
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