Do you notice water coming from the bottom of your water heater in your Framingham, MA, home? You have a water heater leak that you should schedule repairs for quickly.
But what causes leaks? We’re here to explain. As the experts in water heater repair in Framingham, Pro Comfort Control can diagnose any issue with your water heater and find the best solution. With our help, your water heater will last longer and run more efficiently.
What Causes Water Heater Leaks?
If you have a leak in your water heater, your plumber will likely find one of the following issues.
Old Water Tank
Your water heater should last between eight to 12 years, at which point the tank will develop more leaks from rust and corrosion. You’ll need a new water heater to avoid problems.
Consider using this opportunity to update to a tankless model. They can last upward of 20 years and will save you significant money in the long term.
Faulty Drain Valve
You use the drain valve to clean the tank, which you should do once a year to slow sediment accumulation. If the valve becomes loose, you’ll develop a water heater leak and see water pooling around the base of your device. If tightening it doesn’t help, you must replace the component.
Excessive Pressure
When a water heater increases water temperature, it also increases the pressure in the tank. If the pressure doesn’t release correctly, water will find a way to escape through even minute cracks in the tank.
When pressure rises to excessive levels, you’ll know you have an issue with your pressure release valve. Much like your drain valve, you can likely solve the issue by tightening it.
Damaged Tank
Did you know that some Framingham water heaters have three tanks? They have an outer tank that insulates the device, an inner tank that contains the water, and in some cases a third glass tank that stores additional water.
If you have a cracked tank, you’ll notice damage when it occurs on the outer tank. You may not see damage on the inner tanks immediately, but you should regularly check around the base of your device for leaks.
Faulty Connections
When you turn on the hot water in your sink, shower, or other location, it comes from the inlet and outlet connections in your water heater. The cold water flows in through the inlet connection, the water heater warms it to the temperature set on the device’s thermostat, and it exits through the outlet to your location.
Much like your valves, these connections can loosen over time and allow water to leak out. Tightening the connections should fix the issue.
Sediment Build Up
All water heaters build up sediment over time as the minerals dissolved in municipal water supplies settle at the bottom of the tank. Sediment can cause widespread issues for your water heater, including creating cracks in the tank that will cause a water heater leak.
You can help slow the building of sediment by keeping your water temperature closer to 120 degrees rather than 140. If you schedule annual maintenance and have the plumber drain your tank, you can likely avoid the complications of sediment buildup.
Old Anode Rod
Your anode rod consists of an aluminum, zinc, or magnesium wire wrapped around a steel core. It attracts particles that could speed up the corrosion of your tank, causing it to degrade after three to five years. If you don’t replace it promptly, you’ll see cracks form in your tank.
Signs You Have a Leak in Your Water Heater in Framingham, MA
How do you know you have a leak in your Framingham water heater? Stay vigilant for the following signs:
- If you notice your water doesn’t feel as hot as normal, consider it an early sign you have sediment buildup that has caused a leak.
- The most obvious sign you have a leaking water heater includes water pooling on the floor around the device.
- If you see rusty or discolored water, your tank may have corroded to the point where it leaks.
- Reduced water pressure or rapid temperature changes often indicate a leaking water heater.
Schedule Service for Your Water Heater in Framingham
When you have a water heater leak in your Framingham, MA, water heater, don’t delay in scheduling repairs. At Pro Comfort Control, we work efficiently to prevent water damage and restore hot water to your home. Whether you’re wondering about signs for replacement or need your annual maintenance check, we’re always standing by to help.
To book an appointment, call us today.
Author Bio:
Ryan McKernan
Founder
Passionate about delivering outstanding craftsmanship and superior customer service. Offering our customers the absolute best selection of heating, cooling, hot water and plumbing equipment and top-quality installation materials with industry-leading installers. Brings over 25 years of invaluable experience to every project.