Sunday, September 22, 2013

Easy Diagnosis For Leaking Hot Water Heaters

By Brian Winters


Dealing with water heater leaks can be tricky without the help of a specialist. There are a lot of factors involved whenever the unit starts leaking. Look at different areas for possible signs of leaks to protect other parts of the unit from rusting.

Before carrying out repairs, it is important to take safety into account. Shut down the electric or gas supply of the heater and close the water supply before proceeding. Protect yourself from the dangers of your water heater by working in a safe environment. Remind everyone not to use the water heater while carrying out repairs.

If you notice water spraying from your plumbing connections, it is safe to assume that the fittings are not tightened properly. Simply use a wrench to tighten the connections or replaced those that are badly damaged. You can use a sealant or wrap a Teflon tape around the threading when necessary. Inspecting the pipes from time to time is important to keep other areas from having rust stains.

If the leaks are coming from the internal tank, you are left with no choice but to replace the water heater. It is possible that the sediments were left inside over a period of time. Drain the tank beforehand and be careful of hot water drips to avoid scalding burns.

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.

Check the relief valve from time to time for possible signs of leaks. This valve releases excessive inside the tank, protecting it from overheating or blowing up. It helps lowering the temperature between 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit to minimize the valve from opening. Replace it as soon as it stops working.

Sometimes, water heater leaks can be fixed with a tweak or two. Inspect the drain valve for signs of leaks and tighten the valve to stop water from leaking. Replace it as soon as it stops working properly. Failure to do so will allow water to leak for a long time, eventually leading to a more costly repair in the future.

It is normal for your water heater to leak if you live within an area of a colder climate. This is due to condensation, wherein hot water gets mixed with cold water inside the tank. Leaks would eventually stop as soon as the unit starts to heat water.

For professional help, do not hesitate to contact a specialist. Taking immediate action is important to avoid further damage.




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