What To Do When Your Water Heater Is Leaking

A water heater leak can be a frustrating and potentially costly issue to deal with. Not only can it lead to property damage and increased utility bills, but it can also put your safety at risk.

It’s important to know what steps to take when a water heater leaks to minimize damage and fix the problem as quickly as possible.

What To Do When Your Water Heater Is Leaking

How To Know If Your Water Heater Is Leaking

Unless there’s a noticeable hole in your water heater, it can sometimes be hard to know whether it’s leaking.

It’d be best to look out for the following signs to determine whether you’re dealing with a leaking water heater:

  • Rusty Exterior 

Rust occurs when a metal surface comes in close contact with water and moisture. Hence, if you notice rust accumulating on your heater’s exterior, there’s a good chance it’s leaking somewhere. Consider inspecting it for any leaks. You can also get residential plumbing service in your locality to help you examine your water heater.

  • Puddles Of Water

As mentioned above, sometimes you find puddles of water forming near your water heater. This might be a good sign your heater is leaking, and the issue should be addressed immediately. Otherwise, you risk damaging your floors and furniture and paying higher monthly water bills. 

  • Unexpected Increase In Water Bill

An unexpected increase in your water bill is one of the most obvious signs that your water heater is leaking. If you notice your bill is higher than usual, checking for leaks is a good idea.

  • Reduced Water Pressure

If you notice that the water pressure in your home is lower than usual, it’s a sign that you may have a leak. Leaks can occur anywhere in your plumbing system, including in your pipes, faucets, or water meter.

  • Visible Water Damage

Another sign that your water is leaking is visible water damage. This can include stains on walls or ceilings, warping or buckling of floors, or mold growth. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to check for leaks and act to fix the problem.

  • Sound Of Running Water

If you hear running water when all water fixtures are off, it’s a sign that you have a leak somewhere.

How To Respond To A Leaking Water Heater

If you’ve noticed the abovementioned telltale signs of a leaking heater, you must understand how to respond to it. You ought to do the following when your water heater is leaking:

  1. Turn Off The Power Supply

Once you’ve determined you’re dealing with a leaking water heater, you first need to turn off the power supply. The process will depend on whether you use a gas or electric heater. 

For a gas heater, locate the valve in the gas supply system. It’s usually located a few feet from the heater. Turn it off until the gas stops flowing into your heater.

For an electric heater, locate the circuit breaker point and shut it off. Turning off your electric heater will save you from possible shocks and other dangers.

  1. Locate The Leak

Locating a water heater leak can be challenging, as the leak may not always be visible. However, there are some steps you can take to identify the source of the leak.

One way to locate a water heater leak is by checking the connections and valves on the unit. These connections and valves can often become loose over time and can cause leaks. By inspecting them and tightening them if necessary, you may be able to stop the leak.

It’s worth noting that if you’re uncomfortable with performing these checks or if the leak is not easily visible, it’s best to contact a professional plumber to come out and inspect the unit.

  1. Call A Professional Plumber

Although most homeowners prefer to repair a leaking water heater by themselves, it’s a good idea to call a professional.

The expert will have all the necessary skills and tools to inspect and repair the leak, guaranteeing quality results and saving you from common plumbing mistakes.

Although outsourcing the services might have a higher upfront cost, it’ll save you from similar issues in the long run. 

Key Takeaway

Water leaks can be a severe problem that can cause damage to your property, increase your utility bills, and even lead to health hazards.

It’s essential to be aware of the signs that your water is leaking so you can act to fix the problem as soon as possible.

By being vigilant and taking action quickly, you can minimize the damage caused by a leak, and ensure that your home stays safe and dry.

Julie Higgins
Author
Julie is a Staff Writer at momooze.com. She has been working in publishing houses before joining the editorial team at momooze. Julie's love and passion are topics around beauty, lifestyle, hair and nails.