Why Water Heaters Start Leaking

 A leaky water heater is more than just an inconvenience; it can cause water damage, higher utility bills, and even complete appliance failure if not addressed promptly. Understanding why your water heater is leaking is the first step to identifying the problem and taking corrective action before it becomes a more serious problem.

Corrosion inside the tank is one of the most frequent reasons a water heater begins to leak. Over time, sediment and minerals from the supply water build up inside the tank, especially if the water heater is not flushed regularly. This buildup creates a layer that traps heat at the bottom of the tank, causing the metal to overheat and weaken. Over time, this can lead to rust and corrosion, resulting in microscopic leaks that can grow in size if left untreated.

A malfunctioning temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve is another typical cause of water heater leaks. This safety feature is designed to release excess pressure if the temperature or pressure of the water inside the tank gets too high. If the valve is not working properly or is not sealing properly, it may start to leak. Sometimes, simply replacing the valve is sufficient; other times, the leak could be a sign of a more serious internal pressure problem.

Leaks can also occur around pipe fittings and connections, especially where the cold water supply line and hot water outlet connect to the tank. Over time, these connections can become loose or deteriorate due to wear, high pressure, or thermal expansion. A visual inspection can often reveal drips or moisture around the fittings, which can be fixed by tightening or replacing worn parts.

A more subtle cause of leaks is the drain valve located at the base of the tank. This valve is used to flush sediment from the system, but it can become loose or fail to close completely. Even a slow drip from the drain valve can cause puddles over time, and replacing the valve is usually the best solution.

In some cases, the problem isn't the water heater itself, but condensation that forms on the tank. This typically occurs when cold water fills a hot tank in a humid setting, leading to condensation forming on the exterior. Although it may look like a leak, it is actually harmless and can be managed by improving ventilation around the water heater.

A water heater leak should never be ignored. Even small leaks can turn into major repairs or require a complete replacement of the unit. Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank, checking the anode, and inspecting valves and fittings, can significantly extend the life of your water heater and help prevent leaks before they occur.

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