User:Massapequaplumber/sandbox

Why does my water heater leak from the top?

Water heater leaks may be caused by a variety of issues. If a water heater leaks from the top, it may be caused by too much pressure as a result of a defective thermostat. Relieving pressure from the valve may help in stopping the leak and can be accomplished by opening and closing the valve a few times. Whenever you open the valve but you have difficulty closing it, replacing the valve may be necessary. But before you run to your nearest hardware store, it’s important to check the root cause of the leak. If you have doubts, it is recommended to call a professional plumber to fix it for you.

Water heaters are typically sealed and lined with a protective surface and may be difficult to repair on your own. If the leak comes from the tank itself, it may not be repairable and needs to be replaced instead. Determine first the source of the leak and if it comes from any pipes or fittings attached, there’s a good chance that it can be repaired and fixed.

A leaking water heater should not be ignored because it can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage. The first signs of water damage start with a few drops here and there but take it as a serious sign of a bigger problem. A damaged pipe or a leaking water heater can damage your furniture, cause water stains on the floor and ceilings, and can also lead to other issues like molds and rotten surfaces.

Should you uncover a leak, don’t delay corrective action and call a professional plumber to fix it for you. But before the plumber arrives, here are some steps that you need to take to make sure that further damage will be prevented.

1.Shut down the power source if you’re using an electric water heater. Make sure to turn the power off directly at the circuit breaker. 2.If you’re using a gas heater, turn off the gas valve.

3.Shut the cold water supply off by closing the valve that goes into the water heater.

4.Release the pressure in the tank and completely drain the water out the water heater. 5.Check if you can remove the overflow pipe without the need to cut it off. If it’s glued or soldered onto the heater, wait for the plumber to arrive.

Implementing these simple strategies before your local plumber arrives will help prevent a potential costly incident.