A leak from a hot water tank does not always result in the flooding of a home. You may even be able to fix the problem before scrapping the tank, depending on where the leak occurs. A puddle of water can also show up some distance from where the leak occurs, though sometimes the location of the leak is obvious. Whether to fix the problem or replace the hot water heater, track down the source of the leak before deciding. Today, we at Disaster Services would like to discuss the common ways hot water tanks flood your home.
Hot Water Heater Pipe Leaking
A cold water supply line and a hot water line are typically connected to a hot water heater with two pipes. They can bend toward the water heater as the pipes often have elbow joints. Particularly at the joints, either of these water lines can leak. The problem is clear if water sprays from a fitting or pipe. Less noticeable is a dripping pipe or joint. To stop leaks, tighten loose fitting joints. Turn off the water supply and power supply, then disconnect the fittings if this does not solve the leak. Before working on them, allow the temperature on hot water lines to cool down. Reconnect the joints, wrap the threaded end of each fitting with plumber’s tape.
Pressure Relief Valve Leaking on My Hot Water Heater
The relief valve opens should pressure rise too high inside the tank. The pressure returns to normal when steam escapes. The steam quickly condensates and produces a puddle at the bottom of the tank once inside the house. Usually, to blame for excessive tank pressure is too high an operating temperature. To keep pressure in check and save on energy costs at the same time, maintain the hot water at about 120 degrees Fahrenheit. a faulty pressure relief valve is the likely cause, especially after turning down the water heater’s thermostat if pressures build often. Make sure a professional plumbing professional replace the valve. It must be addressed immediately since a faulty pressure relief valve is a potentially dangerous situation.
Condensation in Hot Water Heater
As a result of condensation that formed on the outside of the tank, a puddle on the floor may develop. When most of the water inside the tank is cold, condensation occurs. During periods when hot water usage in the home is especially high, this can happen. Condensation happens when the cold tank reacts with the warmer air inside the home. It gives the appearance of a leaking tank where the water then drips off the tank and onto the floor. To get less than half the tank contains cold water at any given time, try to even out hot water demands in the household.
Water Heater is Leaking from Gaskets at Bottom
In order to warm the water, electric hot water heaters rely on one or two heating elements. They are sealed with gaskets to prevent leakage because the elements project into the tank. If the gaskets wear or become damaged to the point of leaking, water may collect under the tank. Before examining the elements, each element is behind a cover plate, but you must turn off electrical power to the water heater. Look for drips as you move the insulation out of your way, and check all around the element gaskets for the presence of water. Before removing and replacing elements and element gaskets, drain the tank.
Leaking Hot Water Heater Tank
It is time to replace the water heater, once the tank itself starts to leak water, and you are certain there is no other cause for the leakage. Due to mineral deposits and from the constant strain of heating and cooling, the inside of the tank eventually corrodes. There is no way to repair a leaking tank.
Flood & Water Damage Restoration in Baytown, Pasadena, League City, Pearland, Missouri City, Sugar Land, Cypress, The Woodlands, Spring & Greater Houston, Texas
If you experience hot water tank flooding, call Disaster Services and let us help you take care of the flooding.
