Monday, July 29, 2013

Hot Water Heater Leaking Issues

By Brian Winters


Dealing with water heater leaks shouldn't be so difficult if you perform regular water heater maintenance. However, it is normal for every homeowner to ignore their water heaters until they stop generating hot water for the entire household. Oftentimes, water heater leaks can simply be fixed by tightening loose valve and pipe fitting. On the other hand, some major water heater leaks can no longer be repaired and may require a replacement. When this happens, you must be able to buy a replacement heater as soon as possible to continue having access to hot water.

Once you notice your water heater leaking, always call a specialist as soon as possible to avoid further damage. There are a lot of factors that water heater leaks are connected to. It could be your pipe links, bolts or the sediment buildup that is causing your unit to leaking. There might also be a problem along the lines that are going in and out of your water heater, leading to constant leaking. Inspect your tank from time to time to help detect signs of leaks in the early stage while there is time.

It is normal for a leaking water heater to produce less hot water than it used to. When this happens, you might want to consider buying a replacement if repairing it would cost you a lot. Having a unit with a lesser heating efficiency can cause your electric bill to soar. A water heater's lifespan usually last about 8 to 15 years, depending upon the type and brand you are using. Electric water heaters last longer compared to gas-fired units. If you want a more durable heating system, look for tankless water heaters out in the market.

For your safety and protection, do not forget to turn off the circuit breaker or the gas supply valve before carrying out repairs. Turn off the cold water supply to prevent water from entering the tank while allowing pressure to release by opening any hot water tap in your house. Avoid scalding water by shutting down the unit the night before repairing it. Doing this saves you more time and energy.

To know what necessary actions are needed, find out where the leak is coming from. Sometimes, your water heater usually leaks due to condensation, a process wherein cold water is mixed with warm water inside the tank. At times like this, simply wait for the water to warm up until the leak stops. This is a normal problem, especially if you live within an area of a colder climate.

Do not forget to check your cold and hot water lines for any signs of leaks. These lines are usually located near the top of the water heater. Check the ball valve to see if its rotating lever is loose. Simply use a wrench to tighten the nuts. Be careful not to over tighten it to avoid further damage. If the problem persists, contact a specialist as soon as possible.

The same method also applies if you have a loose drain valve. This is usually located at the bottom of the water heater, allowing water to exit the tank when necessary. Tighten the loose valve with a wrench or replace it immediately if badly damaged. Ask help from a specialist for professional drain valve installation.

Check the pressure relief valve for any signs of leaks. This valve is a safety feature that releases excessive pressure inside the tank, protecting it from overheating or blowing up. That is why you have to make sure this valve is working at all times. Once the water inside the tank gets too hot, this valve will open to release water. You can lower the temperature to prevent this valve from opening too often. Check the pressure relief valve from time to time to know if it needs a replacement.

Always take safety into account by calling a professional for quality water heater repairs.




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