A leaking water heater is a source of disruption to the daily routine in addition to a potential electric or gas mishap.
The leak to the water heater, particularly if it is from the bottom, needs to be attended to at the earliest. Engaging a service company is the safest way as it is an issue associated with electrical wiring or gas connections. People living near Chicago can avail of the services of water heater repair in Evanston at a very economical charge.
How to determine a water heater leak?
If you observe a pool of water on the floor under the best tankless water heater, it is a sure give away of a leaking water heater. Or even unusual wetness under the water heater is indicative of a leak in the water heater from the bottom. Not every leak can be attributed to a leak in the water tank of the heater.
The first step is to identify the source of the leak. If it is a minor crack in the water tank, you may be able to fix yourself. Turn off the power supply to the water heater before you attempt to fix it.
Secondly, water may be dripping due to a leak in the drain valve, which is invariably at the bottom of the water heater. Ensure if the drain valve is fully closed by turning it clockwise. If it is tight, but the leak is persisting, it may need to be replaced. If you are confident of doing it yourself, proceed to fix it or hire a plumber for a better job.
Thirdly, the leak may be due to a fault in the pressure relief valve. The function of this valve is to release pressure if the water inside the tank gets overheated. The valve is fitted with a discharge tube that carries water down to the floor. Check this tube for traces of moisture to determine if the valve is the cause of the leak.
The pressure relief valve is a safety device for the water heater. Any trouble with it must be immediately attended to. Check the thermostat setting to ensure that it is not turned up too high. If the settings are within the normal range, the pressure valve may have to be replaced. In most cases, the water heater itself needs to be discarded for a new one.
How to fix a water heater leak?
Whoever does the fixing, the following steps must be followed to ensure the safety of everyone around:
1)Turn off the water supply to the water heater. This will prevent water from overflowing down.
2)Turn off the power supply or gas supply to the water heater. You can turn off the power breaker of the water heater at the main electrical panel of the house. If the water heater is gas-fired, turn the gas dial to OFF position. Do not begin any repair work before ensuring that the water heater is cut off from the power supply. Whatever may be the cause of the leak in water heater getting it repaired with personnel of service company is always a safe bet and you are assured of a perfect job than when you do it on your own.
Leave a Reply