Thứ Bảy, 21 tháng 9, 2013

Water Heater Leaking: Steps For Easy Diagnosis

By Brian Winters


Water heater leaks can get tricky to deal with, especially without professional help. Consider different factors as to why your water heater is leaking in the first place. Check other areas of the tank to recognize early signs of leaks.

Take safety into account prior to performing repairs to avoid unfortunate accidents. Shut down the heating source of the unit and close the water supply valve to prevent water from entering the tank. Always work in a safe environment to protect you from the dangers of your water heater. Do not let anyone use the unit during the repair process.

It is safe to assume that the fittings are not connected tightly if you see water spraying from the pipes. Tighten them with a wrench and use a Teflon tape around the threading when needed. If the pipes are badly damaged, have them replaced immediately. This shouldn't be taken lightly since leaks can damage your tank further.

You may have to replace your water heater if the leaks are coming from the internal tank. This happens when the sediments were left inside the tank for a long time. However, do not forget to empty the tank prior to replacing it. Be careful in draining the unit since hot water can give you scalding burns in no time.

Replace your heating element gasket as soon as it leaks. Drain the tank to ensure proper installation. Protect the new heating element from damage by switching the unit on while opening a hot water tap inside the house.

If you see water dripping from the relief valve, replace it immediately. This valve should be in good condition at all times since it is responsible for releasing excessive pressure inside, protecting your unit from overheating or exploding. To minimize the valve from opening, adjust the thermostat settings between 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit.

For loose drain valves, simply tighten them with a wrench. This shouldn't be taken lightly since it'll be a waste of energy and water if you let your unit leak for a long time.

If you live within an area of a colder climate, it is normal for your water heater to leak due to condensation. This happens when cold water gets mixed with hot water inside. Do not panic since water would eventually stop leaking as soon as it starts to operate.

You can always contact a specialist if you need an extra hand in repairing your water heater. Take action as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs in the future.




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