Water heaters are one of the most important appliances in your home. They provide hot water for cooking, cleaning, and bathing. But when they start to leak, it can be a big problem.

There are a number of reasons why your water heater might be leaking. Here are the most common reasons why your water heater is leaking.

Corrosion

Corrosion is one of the most common causes of water heater leaks. It can occur on the inside of the tank and the outside. This is because water heaters are made of metal, and over time, that metal can corrode because of exposure to water and other elements.

Corrosion can cause the tank to develop holes or cracks, or it can cause the fittings and connections to loosen or fail. In some cases, corrosion can also cause the tank to rupture.

Sediment Build-Up

Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of the water heater tank. This sediment can be made up of a variety of things, including minerals, rust, and dirt.

If the sediment build-up is bad enough, it can cause the water heater tank to crack and leak.

Overheating

Overheating is another common cause of water heater leaks. If the water in the tank gets too hot, it can cause the pressure relief valve to open and release water. This can happen if the thermostat is set too high, if the burner is not working properly, or if there is a problem with the insulation around the tank.

Faulty Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve

One of the most common causes of water heater leaks is a faulty temperature and pressure relief valve. This valve is designed to open and release water if the temperature or pressure inside the tank gets too high.

However, the valve can sometimes become stuck in the open position, which can cause water to leak from the tank. In some cases, the valve can also fail and leak water even when the temperature and pressure are normal.

Faulty Pipes

Faulty pipes can also be a cause of water heater leaks. If the pipes that supply water to the water heater are damaged, they can leak water into the tank. This can happen if the pipes are frozen, if they are corroded, or if they are simply not installed correctly.

Loose Drain Plug

Another common reason for a water heater leak is a loose drain plug. The drain plug is located at the bottom of the water heater and is used to drain the water out of the tank. If the drain plug is loose, water can leak out of the tank and onto the floor.

Cracks in the Tank

If water is leaking from your water heater, it could be because of cracks in the tank. Cracks can occur over time as the tank repeatedly heats and cools the water. Also, these cracks can be caused by corrosion and sediment build-up. These cracks can be difficult to spot, so if you think your water heater might have cracks, it’s best to call a professional for an inspection.

Improper Installation

One of the most common reasons for a water heater leak is improper installation. If the water heater is not installed correctly, it can leak from the bottom or the sides. Improper installation can also cause the water heater not to work correctly and can lead to other problems. If you think your water heater was not installed correctly, you should contact a professional to have it checked.

Old age

As water heaters age, they become more susceptible to leaks. This is because the tank and pipes can become corroded, and the seals and gaskets can deteriorate. If your water heater is more than ten years old, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by a professional to see if it needs to be replaced.

Conclusion

Your water heater is an essential part of your home, providing hot water for showers, laundry, and dishwashing. If your water heater is leaking, it’s important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Water heater leaks can cause a lot of damage to your home, so it’s best to deal with them right away.

L.J. Kruse Co. offers residential heating services in Berkeley, CA and the surrounding areas. We have experienced technicians that can help you diagnose a heater problem and make the necessary repairs. We understand that a leaking water heater can be a major inconvenience, so we’ll do everything we can to get your home back to normal as quickly as possible. Let us help you get your water heater back up and running! Contact us today to get started!