Obtaining a professional water heater service when you notice your water heater leaking or not heating adequately is important for a variety of reasons. The water heater is one of the most critical elements of your home’s plumbing system. You use it for doing laundry, washing dishes, taking showers, housekeeping, and more. With all the water the unit uses, it is almost inevitable that it could start to leak eventually. Maintaining your unit helps to prolong the lifetime of the unit while ensuring you have access to hot water when you need it.
Causes of Water Heater Leaking
Seals and gaskets can break down and wear out, pipes can burst or corrode, tanks can rust or corrode, all of which can cause leaks. If you notice puddles of water underneath the water heater, you need to call for water heater service or repair.
Leaky Water Heater Tank
One of the most common causes of a water heater leaking is when too much pressure builds up. Another common cause is rust and corrosion which often requires a water heater installation.
The Dip Tube
The dip tube extends from the top of the water tank down to the bottom, carrying cold water to the base, where it is then heated. When it comes loose, it restricts the amount of hot water that flows to the home. A leak of this type is harder to detect because it is inside the tank, but if you start to notice you’re getting less hot water than you’re used to, a professional water heater service technician can determine if the dip tube has come loose, then repair it.
Rusting Pipes
When the pipes leading to and from your water heater get rusty, they begin to corrode, and water leaks occur. This can affect not only your water heater but also your potable water, which can potentially be contaminated by bacteria and chemicals.
Water Pressure Build Up
Although not common, it is still not unheard of that when water pressure builds up in the water heater it can lead to an explosion. This can also happen if the water temperature is set too high or if the release valve is damaged or faulty. Some home may also require an expansion tank to remedy this issue. In fact, some cities require the use of an expansion tank per city code. Your licensed plumbing contractor will be able to tell you whether your home or city requires the use of an expansion tank. If your home currently has an expansion tank on the water heater, it is not recommended to remove it, as they are never a bad idea, whether required or not.
The Heating Element
A damaged heating element can cause a water heater leak. Trying to fix it yourself might cause more harm than good and lead to more expense. You should shut off the water and power to the water heater, then call for professional water heater service. The water heater repair technician can make the necessary repairs.
The Thermocouple
If you notice that your water heater pilot won’t stay lit, you may need a thermocouple replacement. When the thermocouple is bad, you are able to light the pilot, but it only stays lit for a short period of time before going out again. It may stay lit for a period of minutes or hours, but it becomes a nuisance over time. Luckily, if the thermocouple is the problem, it can be replaced at a reasonable cost. However, if you are unable to light the pilot at all, you may have other issues and need further water heater service. Either way, you will need to call a plumbing contractor for your water heater service.
Damage From Water Heater Leaking
Water leaks left too long can destroy your carpeting, warp the floorboards, or damage other surrounding appliances. They can also be a health hazard when mold and mildew develop. Once a water heater leak is noticed, the unit should be shut off, then the water from leaking water heaters should be cleaned up thoroughly. The area should be kept as dry as possible until professional water heater service can be conducted.
Routine maintenance of your water heater will ensure you have plenty of hot water and help avoid future costs for repairs or replacement. As with any other home comfort system, the water heater needs regular checks for proper functioning.
In extreme cases, the water heater leaking can lead to significant repair bills and property damage. Small leaks become big leaks and can get worse the longer they go on without water heater service.
If your water heater is leaking, or if you need to schedule maintenance, contact All-n-One Plumbing at (816) 886-7600 for our guaranteed professional water heater service.
Water Heater Installation
If you find that your water heater is beyond repair due to age or damage, your reliable plumbing contractors at All-n-One Plumbing will provide you with an up-front, competitive quote for a water heater replacement. Additionally, if your water heater installation is a standard install (accessible, not an enclosed space, no pipe modifications), we will provide you with an up-front quote for your residential water heater installation by phone! If you do have any variables that may make your job non-standard or even for your own peace of mind, we are always happy to visit your home and provide you with a free estimate! Just call us today to discuss pricing and schedule your appointment for a free estimate or water heater installation.
10531 E US Hwy 40
Independence, MO 64055
You can rest easy knowing that you can trust us. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee and our free estimates, where can you go wrong?
