How to Handle Leaking Hot Water Tank

However, there are circumstances when we can't avoid accidents or other emergencies. Knowing what to do in the event of a leaking hot water tank and taking immediate action can significantly reduce the damage.

Know The Causes of Leaking Hot Water Tank

Leaks are a nightmare for any homeowner. If you ignore a leak, it will eventually cause expensive structural damage to your home. Risks multiply when water or power leaks are also present. If your water heater is leaking, this may be due to several factors:

1. Tank Expansion
2. Rising humidity levels.
3. Valves need replacement
4. Silt buildup or sediment increment.
5. Tank piping or fittings need to be replaced

It would help if you considered repairing or replacing your water tank to avoid more severe issues.

How to Handle Leaking Hot Water Tank 

Of course, some of these issues are far more pressing than others. Mold and mildew can spread rapidly in the area around your water heater if you don't take action to fix the problem. 

Luckily, we can swiftly fix many potential causes of water tank leaks. However, you need to properly shut it down and begin draining before it makes a mess of your home, and call us ASAP for repair or replacement. But before then:

Locate leak

Locating the leak's origin is the first and foremost priority. Locations near other plumbing and locations prone to condensation are familiar places to find hot water storage tanks.

Drains and pipes. To find the source of a little leak, wipe it up and look for it again. If you can't see where the water is coming from, lay down some paper towels or rags.

Turn off the Power.

If the source of power, if your heater, is electric, you'll need to turn off the breaker for your tank at the electrical panel. Electric heaters should cut the power off, remember water and electricity doesn’t get along. Locate the switch and turn it off. 

In the case of gas, handle it carefully. The gas valves are sensitive and easily broken if not handled correctly.

Turn the water supply off.

Turning off the water supply at the cold water shut-off valve is necessary if the water heater leaks heavily. You can cut off the water supply at the valve above the water heater, which is standard on most models.

Either a pull-down lever or a clockwise-turning valve will be necessary. If you can't get to your water tank because it's blocked off or the water around it is too hot, you should switch off the main water supply to your home.

Every house has a unique location for this valve, so knowing where it is will save valuable time in an emergency. Limiting the water supply may help slow or stop the leak.

Hire a Reputable Expert

Call for an emergency plumbing service or hot water repair expert; DIY could cause further problems, leading to repairs that could break your bank. To avoid this, contact us for questions or concerns about your water tank. We would gladly find a lasting solution to any issue.