One of the most common problems homeowners face with their water heaters is a leak at the bottom of the tank. If you’re experiencing this issue, you may be wondering if it’s normal or if you need to act quickly to prevent water damage in your home.
First things first, it’s important to understand that a leaking hot water heater is never normal. While it may not always be a cause for immediate concern, any sign of a leak should be addressed promptly to avoid more significant issues down the line.
Now, let’s look at why your water heater may be leaking from the bottom and how you can resolve the problem.
Is Your T&P Valve the Problem?
If your water heater is leaking from the bottom, it may be a sign that the temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve is faulty. The T&P valve prevents the water tank from exploding when there is excess pressure inside it. For instance, when too much heat builds up in the water heater, the pressure within the tank increases. The T&P valve relieves the excess pressure using a discharge tube.
Over time, the pressure valve can become worn down and allow water to drip or leak out. If the temperature or pressure rises too much and the T&P valve is not functioning correctly, it will gradually cause the tank to leak at the bottom. If the discharge tube coming from the pressure valve is wet, this likely means the valve is faulty. You will need to have a hot water heater repair professional replace it.
Make Sure to Check the Drain Valve
Another reason your hot water heater might be leaking at the bottom is that the drain valve is damaged or faulty. The drain valve is a small valve located at the bottom of the tank that’s typically used to flush out sediment, debris, and other residue. If the drain valve becomes loose or damaged, it can cause the water heater to leak.
You may be able to resolve the problem by tightening the valve. Turn the handle or knob and then wait to see if the dripping stops. If it is still leaking, the valve should be replaced.
The Tank Itself May Be the Issue
If the leak persists even after you have checked the T&P and drain valves, then the source of the problem is the hot water tank itself. The cause might be due to corrosion or rust caused by prolonged use or regular exposure to hard water. Regardless of the cause, fixing a leaking tank yourself is not recommended. It’s best to contact a certified plumber like Belmar Plumbing & Heating. We will help you know if it’s time to replace the entire system.
Seek Assistance Immediately
Regardless of the cause, a leaking hot water tank can lead to serious water damage in your home. If you notice that your hot water heater is leaking, turn off the water supply immediately and call a plumber. Our team has the knowledge and expertise to diagnose the problem and recommend the best solution, whether that includes repairing or replacing the hot water tank.
Trust Belmar Plumbing & Heating to Fix Your Leaking Water Heater
A leaking hot water heater is never normal and should be addressed promptly to avoid water damage in your home. Whether it’s related to the T&P valve, drain valve, or the tank itself, it’s crucial to contact hot water heater replacement professionals right away to fix the problem. A qualified plumber will check the entire system, locate the leak, and provide a remedy to fix the issue.
If you need help diagnosing your water heater’s faulty performance, call Belmar Plumbing & Heating today! We’ll get to the bottom of the issue quickly, so you can get back to enjoying the benefits of hot water hassle-free.
