How To Deal With A Leaking Water Heater

Is your water heater leaking? If so, you have come to the right place. A water heater can leak due to many problems – starting from a loose valve to a corroded water tank.

If you find water pooling near the heater or dripping from the tank or pipes, there are many things to do to stop the leak. This article provides information on how to deal with a leaking water heater.

Shut Off the Water Supply

The first step to deal with a leaking water heater is to turn off the water supply to the tank.

The heater should have a shut-off valve on the cold inlet pipes. If the tank has a ball-type valve, you need to turn the handle of the valve 180 degrees.

On the other hand, if the tank has a gate-type valve, turn the wheel clockwise as far as you could. If the valve is broken or rusty, you can turn off the water supply to your home.

Turn Off the Power Supply

The next step is to turn off the power supply to the water heater. If an electric water heater, you should shut off the power at the breaker before working with the heater. In case the water heater is gas-powered, you should shut off the gas supply before working with the heater. The gas line leading to the tank should have a dedicated shutoff valve.

Finding the Leak

The final step is to determine the exact location of the leak. Once you shut off the water and power supply to the tank, you can easily assess the location of the leak. You need to check the inlets, outlets, pressure relief valve, bottom of the water heater, water pressure, and temperature of the heater to determine the exact location of the leak.

Need a Plumber to Repair a Leaking Water Heater?

Nassau
(516) 629-0353

Suffolk
(631) 693-4907

Queens
(718) 571-8877

Brooklyn
(347) 797-3997

Westchester
(914) 344-6757

DIY Water Heater Repair vs. Hiring a Plumber

Although some people have the required ability and knowledge to repair and maintain their own water heaters, it may be best to play it safe and call a professional plumber when your water heater is leaking. Of course, we’re alway a phone call away.