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 pre...