3 Signs Your Water Heater May Leak

Water heater leaks are something all homeowners want to avoid. It can cause flooding and serious water damage in a home if it gets out of hand, which can be quite costly and time-consuming to repair and replace. Water heater leaks could happen due to the following reasons:

A Loose Drain Valve: A loose drain valve can create a slow water heater leak. Fortunately, this can easily be resolved by simply tightening the drain valve with a wrench. You can usually tell that the water heater leak is due to a loose drain valve because there is a puddle of water right below the drain valve.
There’s Too Much Pressure: Too much pressure in the water heater usually happens when the water heater is set at too high of a temperature. It’s important you are checking the water heater temperature regularly to ensure that it remains within reasonable temperatures. It should be set from anywhere between 120- and 140-degrees Fahrenheit.
The Tank is Old: Finally, the leak could just be a result of the water heater getting old. Eventually, corrosion and rust will take a toll on the tank. If you know that your water heater is over 10 years old and you notice a leak, it’s best to have it inspected by a professional plumber to determine whether or not replacement is warranted at this point. Waiting too long to do this could lead to a serious flood in the home.

To prevent future leaks, be sure to inspect the area around the water heater every so often. If you notice any water leaks and can’t pinpoint its cause, call in for a professional inspection right away. If you currently need professional assistance for your water heater, contact us today. We are here for you and all your home’s plumbing needs.

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