Etobicoke Home Repairs: How To Tell If Your Water Heater Is Leaking

Your water heater uses an electric heating element or gas burner to maintain a steady supply of hot water. This essential system can become damaged, causing hot water to leak out in your basement or utility room. Find out when to contact plumbing services in Etobicoke by checking for these signs of a leaking hot water heater.

Sounds of Dripping Water

Take a minute to stand near your water heater and listen carefully. Turn off any other noises and listen for any water sounds. A leak in the heater or in the surrounding pipes should be audible, as a drip or rushing sound.

Water heaters have an internal rubber diaphragm bladder which expands and contracts. If this becomes compromised, then water may be leaking out of it into the surrounding shell. This may not be immediately obvious from the outside, but can damage the heating element and cause water to start leaking out of the tank.

Visible Pooling

One of the most obvious signs of a damaged water heater is pooling water. There shouldn’t be any water leaking out of the heater at all, so any water pooled on the top or bottom of the unit means it’s time for a repair or replacement service.

Pooling around the bottom of the hot water heater can be caused by a damaged diaphragm or by a damaged drain valve. The drain valve is located near the bottom of the tank and opens to allow you to drain the entire tank. It’s a threaded drain to allow you to connect a hose to it, so you may be able to thread a cap on as a temporary fix as you wait for a local plumber to inspect your water heater.

Cracked Water Lines

Not all water leaks are caused by the water heater itself. If you notice water in your basement or utility room, the source may also be damaged pipes. Your water lines can leak due to improper connections or cracks from swelling. Major pressure swings or freezing temperatures are common causes of damaged water lines.

Whether you have copper, PVC or other water line material, it’s best to contact a professional plumber for a reliable repair. Improper repairs can only mask the problem and lead to more leaks in the future.

Internal Buildup

Do you have pressure issues with your hot water but no visible leaks? Water heaters can become compromised even if they aren’t leaking onto the floor. These units commonly collect sediment from water, particularly hard water, and can become clogged over time.

Ask a local plumber to ask about inspecting your water heater for signs of buildup. This issue can reduce the efficiency of the heating elements and slow down the flow rate.

No Hot Water

You don’t always get hot water immediately after turning on the faucet, but the temperature should increase over time. If no water comes out or the water doesn’t heat up, it may be time for a new water heater.

No water at all typically means there’s a clog or major leak in the line. Turn the faucet off and listen for any leaks. Schedule an emergency inspection to see if you have a leaking hot water line.

When water comes out but it doesn’t heat up, you may simply need a new burner or electric heating elements. This repair is more affordable than a complete replacement.

Schedule Plumbing Services in Etobicoke

Whether you have a minor leak or rushing hot water in your home, turn to Handyman Connection for reliable plumbing services in Etobicoke. Request an estimate to see how these affordable services compare and to enjoy hassle-free hot water heater repairs.