Hot Water Heater Leaking

Usually hot water heaters do not wear out easily, at least not in a few years time. But when they do wear out, the damaged condition can be a leak, a loose drain valve, dripping water forming puddles, or even faulty pipes. And the worth of the damage of all these things can actually make you spend your money hand over fist. The above few discussed signs will be more than evident for you to know that your hot water heater has failed and very soon it needs a replacement.

Hot Water Heater: Structure and Working

As you must be knowing by now, hot water heaters are available in two types: electric and gas heaters, and the components for both are almost the same. Let's consider the structure of any one type of heater. You will find a large steel tank which has a dip tube in it. That tube draws the water into the tank. A thermostat present in the structure warms the water that enters the tank and eventually emits it out through a pipe. Also, there is a drain valve that facilitates a user to empty the tank as and when needed to.

The working is such that when room temperature water enters the empty tank, all the heating elements present in the heater heats the water to a certain temperature. Then, the hot water reaches the top of the tank and gets discharged when we turn on the tap. Simultaneously, the next batch of cold water replaces the bottom of the tank to be heated. And in this manner, the whole circulation of cold water entering and hot water getting released goes on time and again.

Since the heater's entire working process is quite heavy, there can be a possibility for the heater to face a small leak and get buggered in between. That's when you realize your water heater leaking problem needs to be fixed and so you behave accordingly towards it. However, there are very less leaks that can be fixed and repaired in a heating unit. The rest need to be returned for a replacement procedure. For now, here are a few pointers to know what can be the possible causes for a hot water heater leaking.

Water Heater Leak: Causes

• Starting with a worst case scenario, if there is excessive pressure in the water tank, the tank is likely to explode. In such a case call for professional help. Because such a condition is doubtlessly very dangerous and can cost someone his life.
• There is a temperature relief valve located at the top of every water heater tank whose use is to relieve the pressure out of the tank in case a lot of it is built up inside. In such situations, it is the job of the valve to release the water and let it flow outwards. But if the valve refuses to do so and you notice leaking from top, it's obvious to conclude that the leak starts from here itself.
• Water heater leaking from drain valve is another common cause in the book of causes and water heater problems. The drain valve is located at the bottom of the storage tank and since it's a device which encounters a force of water every now and then, it is likely to get brittle and busted one fine day. Replace the valve ASAP.
• In case of gas water heaters, the vents that (emits the gas fumes) have clogs in it, there can be an anti reaction in the whole working unit causing leaks and malfunctions. Call for a professional help and fix this problem soon.
• The pipes and other supplements too are blamed for a leakage problem. Some things just need tightening and a proper fixing. If possible one can get it done on their own without calling for professional help.

Anytime you attempt to check the main source of the heater leak, make sure you start from the top of the tank and then proceed towards the bottom. In general cases, the first sign of a leaking is water dripping on the floor and forming a huge puddle. Once you see such a scenario know that cautious precautions are supposed to be taken thereafter.