Water heaters are a vital part of any home, providing hot water for bathing, cooking, and cleaning. However, water heaters can develop leaks over time. A water heater leaking from the bottom often indicates that the tank has corroded and needs to be replaced.
There are a few reasons water heaters leak from the bottom.
Temperature & Pressure (T&P) Valve
One of the most common reasons for a water heater to leak from the bottom is a faulty or damaged Temperature & Pressure (T&P) valve. The T&P valve is a safety feature that helps to release excess pressure and temperature from the water heater. If the T&P valve is damaged, it may not be able to release pressure, causing the water heater to leak properly.
Drain Valve
Another common reason for a water heater to leak from the bottom is a faulty or damaged drain valve. The drain valve is a valve that is used to release water from the water heater. If the drain valve is damaged, it may not be able to properly release water, causing the water heater to leak.
Issue Inside the Tank
One of the most common reasons for a water heater to leak from the bottom is an issue with the tank itself. The tank is the part of the water heater that holds the water. If there is an issue with the tank, it may not be able to hold the water properly, causing the water heater to leak.
Inlet and Outlet Connections
The water supply lines that provide cold water to the tank and hot water to the plumbing system can sometimes become loose and cause leaks. Tightening the connections is a simple fix that most people can do. However, if the leak persists, it may be necessary to replace the water lines.
What to Do If the Water Heater Is Leaking
- Turn Off the Water Supply
The first thing you should do if your water heater is leaking is to turn off the water supply. The water supply lines are located above the tank and will have handles that allow you to turn them off. Once you have turned off the water supply, the water will stop flowing into the tank.
- Turn Off Gas or Power
If your water heater is powered by gas or electricity, you will need to turn off the gas or power to the unit. For gas water heaters, there will be a knob on the side of the unit that you can turn to the “off” position. For electric water heaters, you will need to flip the switch on the circuit breaker that powers the unit.
- Call a Professional
If you have a leaking water heater, it is best to call a professional to repair the unit. Water heaters can be very dangerous and you do not want to attempt to repair the unit yourself.
To Sum Up
There are a few reasons your water heater may be leaking from the bottom. Most likely, it is due to a problem with the pressure relief valve, the drain valve, or a crack in the tank.
If you notice a leak, it’s important to shut off the power to the water heater and call a plumber as soon as possible. A water heater leak can cause serious damage to your home, and it’s best to have a professional take a look at it to determine the best course of action.
Climate Experts installs, services, and maintains all major brands of tankless water heaters in Pickering and air conditioners 24/7/ We are licensed, bonded, and insured. Get in touch with us.
