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These 4 Factors Could Be Causing Your Leaky Water Heater

Nicholas Roppo • Aug 19, 2021

Finding out the root cause of the problem.

Professional plumber fixing a bathroom water heater using different tools.

"Why is there water near the water heater? This can't be good; Oh, no! The water heater is leaking — and replacing it can be expensive, what now"? Does this scenario sound familiar to you? Obviously, it does, or you wouldn't be here, right?

First things first, you're correct, replacing a water heater can be expensive. However, the good news is that just because your water heater has a leak does not automatically mean that you have to purchase a new one. There are steps that need to be taken to determine what is causing the leak. And if it even warrants a replacement. N&J Plumbing has put together a few tips to answer some of the most common questions about water heaters and leaks. 

So, You've Noticed a Water Leak — What Now?

When you notice a small dribble of water on your floor, the normal instinct is to just clean it up and your floor will incur no damage. However, that small dribble may become a constant thing. So you could be looking at a puddle or flood that will damage your floors and possibly drywall over time. That is also the point at which you will start to incur an expensive replacement.

This is why it is essential to swiftly identify where the leak originated from. And how urgent the repair should be to prevent further damage. You may be able to see where the leak is coming from. However, when dealing with water heaters and things of the like, it is always best to allow a professional to rectify the issue in accordance with all laws and guidelines for the safety of yourself as well as your family. 

Why Do I Need A Plumber? I Can Fix It Myself

Or you could make it worse if you don't know what you're doing as well as what to look for. A professional plumber will evaluate two specific areas. This is in an effort to determine the origin and severity of the leak. However, there are a few more to consider, which we've included below.

The Four Most Probable Causes of a Leaky Water Heater

You can inspect these areas yourself before contacting a plumber to give them an idea of what is wrong and what equipment they will most likely require to repair or replace your water tank.

1. The Tank

On the flip side, if the tank itself has a leak, uh oh, this could mean trouble. When this happens, the probable cause is normally that the sediment has accrued and over time has caused corrosion at the bottom of the tank. This is critical and will likely call for a complete water heater replacement. 

2. Heater Drain Valve

This is located at the bottom end of the tank. The drain valve is a spigot that is tasked with flushing the sediment from your water heater. If the leak is found to be here, then this would be great news. The drain valve can promptly be replaced at an affordable rate.

3. The Pressure and Temperature Relief Valve

This valve is an integral part of ensuring that your water heater is functioning properly and is assessing the pressure as well as the water temperature inside the tank. If the tank overloads with pressure or the water get too hot, the valve will drain water from the tank. If this valve does prove to be the culprit, you will likely see water leaking from the valve, down the side of the tank. 

You need a new valve if this happens to be the scenario. Maybe your current one is broken, or maybe there's too much pressure inside the water tank, itself. If this is the situation, it will respond by forcing the water out through the temperature and pressure valve in an attempt to avert a major issue. You will need a licensed plumber to diagnose this issue. 

4. Hot/Cold Water Outlet and Inlet Connections

If the origin of your leak is due to a hot or cold water inlet or outlet, you have lady luck on your side because this is an easy and inexpensive fix. You simply need to just check the outlet pipes and the inlet pipe to determine if they are loose or not. If this does pan out to be the issue, just get your wrench from the toolbox and tighten it up, or if it's the pipeline itself, just replace the pipeline that's faulty. 

Next Step — Contact a Licensed Plumber

If you've noticed a water heater leak or any leak for that matter — or if you just have questions about a different plumbing issue or plumbing emergency — contact N&J Plumbing today. A member of our team will be happy to answer your questions 24/7 at (860) 530-2325. In the meantime, check out our blog over here.

a close up of frost on a window with trees in the background
By Nick Roppo 01 Dec, 2023
As the golden leaves of fall give way to the frosty whispers of winter in Connecticut, it’s time to shift our focus to the unsung heroes of our homes: our plumbing systems. With the crisp chill in the air serving as a gentle reminder, homeowners are encouraged to perform these essential plumbing checks to ensure a warm, comfortable, and hassle-free winter season.  1. Insulate Your Pipes: The First Line of Defense Against the Cold The plummeting temperatures of Connecticut winters are notorious for freezing pipes, a situation no homeowner ever wants to face. To counter this, inspect all exposed pipes in areas like the basement, attic, and under kitchen and bathroom sinks. Foam pipe insulation, a readily available and cost-effective solution, can be your first line of defense. Remember, even the smallest pipe can cause an upheaval if frozen, so leave no pipe behind! 2. Drain and Disconnect Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures Outdoor plumbing is often the first casualty of freezing temperatures. Start by draining garden hoses and, if possible, store them indoors. Shut off the valves to outdoor faucets and drain them to prevent any remaining water from freezing and expanding, which can lead to cracks and leaks. This simple step can save you from unexpected repairs come spring. 3. Give Your Water Heater a Wellness Check A chilly Connecticut winter morning without hot water is a dire situation indeed. Your water heater works overtime during the colder months, so ensuring its efficiency before winter is crucial. Flush out the tank to remove sediment buildup, which can hamper efficiency and shorten the lifespan of your heater. If your water heater is older than 10 years, consider consulting a professional to assess its condition. Remember, an efficient water heater is not just about comfort; it’s also about cost-effectiveness. 4. Clear Your Gutters and Drainage Paths While not directly part of your indoor plumbing, gutters and external drainage systems play a vital role in protecting your home’s foundation and structure from water damage. Ensuring these are clear of leaves, twigs, and debris will prevent water buildup and ice dams, which can lead to more significant issues like roof leaks and foundation damage. 5. Know Your Home: Locate Your Main Water Valve In the unfortunate event of a pipe bursting, time is of the essence. Knowing the location of your main water shut-off valve can avert a minor mishap from turning into a major catastrophe. This knowledge is particularly crucial for those chilly mornings when a frozen pipe suddenly bursts. A quick response can significantly reduce the extent of water damage. Conclusion: A Stitch in Time Saves Nine Taking proactive steps to winterize your plumbing can save you from the headache of dealing with emergency repairs in the dead of winter. Remember, these checks not only protect your plumbing but also contribute to the overall health and longevity of your home. And, should you encounter any issues beyond your expertise, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. After all, peace of mind in knowing your home is prepared for the winter chill is priceless. As the adage goes, “A stitch in time saves nine,” and this couldn’t be more true when it comes to preparing your home’s plumbing for the Connecticut winter. So, as you enjoy the last of the autumn hues, make a plan to give your plumbing system the attention it deserves. Your future self, comfortably sipping hot cocoa in a warm, leak-free home, will thank you.
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As the vibrant leaves of autumn give way to the stark, frosty landscapes of winter, homeowners in Connecticut face a unique set of challenges. Among these, the risk of frozen pipes stands as a silent adversary, waiting to strike in the coldest months. This comprehensive guide is dedicated to helping you, the savvy homeowner, navigate the complexities of winterizing your plumbing system. Our aim? To ensure that when Jack Frost comes knocking, your home's pipes remain unfazed, safeguarding your cozy abode from the grip of winter's chill.
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