Why Is My Water Heater Leaking

Internal tank leaks can not be repaired and the water heater will need to be replaced.

Why is my water heater leaking.

One of the most common causes of water heater leakage is a loose drain valve. And when it opens it releases water to the bottom of the water heater via the discharge pipe. Water heaters can leak due to a number of problems including loose valves excessive pressure in the tank or issues with the pipes that connect to the unit. The relief valve is working the way it s intended and water drained to reduce the pressure inside the tank.

When you see water coming out from the water heater release valve there are two most likely causes. Fortunately and to your relief sometimes when your water heater is leaking from the top it may not be because of a malfunctioning or defective part. Rain water when rain water travels down the flue vent pipe of a gas water heater it can collect on the top of your tank. Water may also leak from the pressure relief valve on the water heater.

As discussed above when sediment builds up in the bottom of a water tank for years and years it will eventually corrode through the bottom of the tank and begin to leak. All water heaters have a drain near the bottom of the unit so that the tank can be emptied before removal or during routine cleaning of the tank itself. Flexible water supply tubes are the most common cause of leaks above the water heater since it is common for these tubes to fail long before the water heater is ready for replacement. A leaking drain valve can be identified by moisture or water dripping either out of the drain opening or around the valve itself.

The bottom of the water tank. This could be caused by either a faulty valve or a high pressure situation in the water heater. It water appears to be leaking from the valve try tightening it with a wrench until it is snug but be careful not to over tighten it. Here are a few other possible causes.

Your tpr valve located at the top of the water heater automatically opens to discharge water when it senses too high pressure levels. If there is insulation around the supply tubes remove it so you can inspect and replace the tubes if necessary. Lastly the most common cause of a leaking water tank. Well it means that your water heater has dangerously high pressure inside the tank.

And if your water heater is more. If the valve itself is bad it can be replaced in several steps. Shut off the water heater shut off the water supply and drain some of the water from the tank.