With everything we have to keep up with each day, property owners sometimes put off dealing with a leaking water heater. However, it’s not a problem that one should ignore or put off.
At High Point Plumbing, we’re sometimes asked, “Is a leaking water heater dangerous?” In the following discussion, we’d like to share some reasons why it is and why it needs professional attention. As the leading provider of plumbing and heating services in Midnapore, AB, we’re here to keep you safe and protect your property.
The Dangers of a Leaking Water Heater
Water heater leaks present a range of problems.
Structural Damage and Mold Growth
Leaking water seeps into walls, floors, and ceilings, compromising your home’s structural integrity. The typical location of a water heater aggravates these internal water intrusion problems.
Mold thrives in humid, warm places and leads to a number of serious medical hazards. Remediation is expensive and often involves extensive cleaning and materials rehabilitation.
Electrical Hazards
If water comes into contact with electrical outlets or wiring, it can result in electrical shocks or fire hazards. Basic water heater safety demands shutting off the source of power to a water heater immediately after detecting a leak.
Scalding Risks
Water heater malfunctions can cause hot water pressure to spike unexpectedly. That can, in turn, result in dangerously hot water at taps or showers, leading to scalding injuries that particularly threaten children and the elderly.
Gas Leaks and Explosions
A leaking water heater can also indicate a gas leak caused by physical damage. Escaping gas combined with any spark can cause explosions.
Flooding
Significant leaks can lead to above-surface flooding, damaging furniture, flooring, and personal belongings. Standing water also creates slip hazards and increases utility bills.
What to Do If Your Water Heater Leaks
Is a leaking water heater dangerous? Now that you know it is, move quickly to take the following measures when you notice a water heater leak to protect your safety and property.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the shut-off valve on your water heater and turn it off. You’ll lose hot water service, but you’ll cut off further leaking pending professional repairs.
2. Shut Off Power or Gas
Turn off the circuit breaker that controls the circuit serving your water heater. If your water heater is fueled by natural gas, shut off the gas valve to prevent leaks.
3. Inspect for Obvious Issues
Look for visible causes of leaks, like a faulty drain valve or loose connections. Avoid attempting major repairs yourself — these require professional leak detection and repairs.
4. Call a Professional Plumber
Is a leaking water heater dangerous? Because we know it is, you should contact a trusted plumber like High Point Plumbing in Midnapore, AB, for prompt emergency plumbing services. Professionals can diagnose the root cause of the leak and recommend appropriate repairs or replacement options.
How Expert Plumbers Address a Leaking Water Heater
Experienced plumbers follow a systematic approach to resolve water heater malfunctions safely and efficiently:
- Tightening connections. Plumbers will tighten or replace fittings if the trouble lies in loose inlet or outlet connections.
- Replacing faulty components. An expert will replace broken pressure relief valves, drain valves, or other defective parts.
- Flushing sediment buildup. Over time, sediment accumulates in a water heater’s storage tank, contributing to leaks and affecting hot water pressure. When necessary, a plumber will flush the tank.
- Temporary repairs for cracks. For small cracks in the tank, plumbers may apply temporary patches. However, long-term solutions usually demand system replacement of damaged water heaters.
Replacement Options for Leaking Water Heaters
If your water heater is beyond repair, modern replacement options offer improved efficiency and safety. Ask your plumber about some of the advanced replacement options:
- Tankless water heaters
- Hybrid water heaters
- Solar water heaters
- High-efficiency storage tank water heaters
Choose High Point Plumbing for Expert Repairs in Midnapore, AB
High Point Plumbing ensures your water heater operates safely and efficiently. Read some of our other posts for discussion of other home comfort and utility topics such as the best reasons to choose a heat pump for year-round heating and cooling.
So, is a leaking water heater dangerous? Absolutely. From structural damage to potential explosions and fire hazards, the risks are too significant to ignore. Follow the initial steps we laid out above and call our expert plumbers to safeguard your home.
Call on High Point Plumbing for prompt and courteous professional service in Midnapore and around the region — we’re here when you need us!