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Why is My Water Heater Leaking?

If you’ve ever come home to a puddle of water around your water heater, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only is there a big mess to clean up, but you also diagnose and fix what caused the leak in the first place. In this blog, we’ll go over some of the most common causes of a leaky water heater. If you’re not sure what’s causing your leak, it’s always best to call in a professional to take a look. Bucks County Fuel offers the most affordable water heater repair services in Southeast PA.

Your temperature gauge may be set too high

Whenever you decide to adjust your thermostat, be sure to pay close attention. If it is set higher than what is necessary, or even comfortable, then it can cause unnecessary stress on your heating system as well as an increase in energy bills. When the temperature is set too high, a buildup of steam can occur. This causes an excessive amount of pressure which could be the source of your leak. 

Mineral and sediment collection could be the cause of your leak 

One of the most common causes of a water heater leak is simply a build-up of sediment in the bottom of your tank. Over time, this sediment can break through the liner and cause a leak. 

For maximum efficiency of your hot water heater, it’s important to check for any corrosion or mineral deposits around the heating element on a regular basis. This small amount of time spent on preventative maintenance can save large sums of money over the life of the product by preserving its function. Corrosion and minerals can accumulate over time causing your heater to operate less efficiently, or in severe cases, leading to an unsafe environment in your home. Protecting yourself and your family from potentially unsafe elements is crucial, so make sure you check for corrosion or mineral deposits around the heating element regularly.

A faulty drain valve

A faulty drain valve could be the culprit of your leak. The drain valve of your water heater allows the homeowner, or service professionals, to properly drain the tank to perform routine maintenance or cleaning. When this valve is opened and closed repeatedly, it can become loose. A loose drain valve could absolutely be the source of your leak, so don’t forget to check the part when you’re attempting to diagnose your leak.

You may need to replace the entire unit

If you notice water pooling in your home or hear the sound of running water, it’s important to identify the source and take action fast. In many cases, simple tasks such as tightening joints and patching holes are enough to stop minor leaks. However, if you’ve done all of these things and there’s still a leak, you might need to replace your water heater. It’s often more cost-effective to replace your water heater than to try to fix something that can’t be repaired. If you’re dealing with a major plumbing issue, don’t wait for it to get worse — consider using Bucks County Fuel to install your new water heater. 

Most Affordable Water Heater Services in Bucks County, PA

Bucks County Fuel provides the most reliable water heater services in Southeastern PA at the best rates. We’ve been serving homeowners and business owners for over 10 years, offering the best repair services in your area. Saving our customers’ money year after year, our goal is to be the best HVAC company in Bucks County. Schedule a repair today!