You may think that water heater leaks are not a big deal. After all, it’s literally a tank full of water. Aren’t leaks bound to happen from time to time? The short answer is no; leaks are not normal for your water heater. In fact, they can be downright dangerous.
If you suspect that you have a leak and need service for water heaters in Loganville, GA, our team can help. Most problems have easy solutions, but some do require more attention. In the meantime, you can learn more about why a leaking water heater is bad news for your home and family.
About Water Heater Leaks
Water can leak out of your water heater anywhere that there is a connection. There are lines that deliver water to your water heater, and lines that send hot water into your home when it is needed. There are also various valves and pipes connected to the tank.
Aside from being a problem for your hot water source, this leaking water can also cause damage to your home. If left unchecked, even a small drip can turn into a big problem quickly. A small drip can also lead to a bigger leak very quickly if left ignored. If you’ve ever needed water damage remediation for your home, you know just how costly and stressful fixing the damage caused by water leaks can be.
Causes of Water Heater Leaks
Water heater leaks are most common as pipe connections become loose or wear down. Small holes in the fittings allow water to drip out, and the more water that drips out, the more significant the hole becomes. The good news is that if you catch a leak early, repairs can be made and damage can be prevented.
The biggest problem with a water heater leak is that it allows oxygen into what should be an airtight chamber. Oxygen can lead to rust, and if your water heater begins to rust even the slightest bit, then the whole tank needs to be replaced. Rust cannot be slowed down or repaired unless the rust is on an attachment that can be replaced completely. Once your actual tank begins to rust and corrode, it needs to be replaced.
Your water heater has a built-in anode rod that is specifically designed to prevent rust that develops from corrosion. However, over time this anode rod wears down and needs to be replaced. If you replace it regularly, usually every three to five years, then there’s less chance that your water heater will leak due to corrosion.
Your water heater is probably located in your garage or a closet in your home. It is not in your direct line of sight very often, and when it is, you probably don’t give it much thought. But it is important to take time to look at your water heater at least once a month to make sure everything is tight and secure so you can hopefully avoid the headache and hassle that accompany a leaking water heater.
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