A water heater is one of the most important appliances in your house, though we often pay it no mind because its usually tucked away in a utility room. As a homeowner, you should be checking on it regulary to make sure that it is working properly though, and that there are no leaks. If you do find it leaking, there are a few reasons your water heater might be leaking. The most common culprits are a faulty pressure relief valve or a crack in the tank.
If your pressure relief valve is leaking, it’s likely because it’s not properly seated or it’s become clogged with sediment. You can try reseating the valve or cleaning it out with a vinegar solution. If that doesn’t work, you’ll need to replace the valve. Replacing the valve can be a bit of a hassle though, so if this job needs to be done it is always suggested that you trust it to professional plumber to make sure it gets done correctly.
A crack in the tank is a more serious problem and will require a new water heater. If you see water around the base of your water heater, it’s likely coming from a crack in the tank. This is a serious issue, and cane only be truly fixed by replacing the water heater. Cracks can form for many reasons, but the most likely culprit is from expansion due to freezing. Most houses shouldn’t need to worry about this, but if this a water heater at a cottage, or perhaps in an older addition to a house, it should be checked on regularly.
If you’re not sure what’s causing your water heater to leak, it’s best to call a plumber. They can help you troubleshoot the problem and make the necessary repairs. A professional plumber can quickly and accurately assess the water heater, and figure out a solution.