Help! My Water Heater Is Leaking
Realizing that your water heater is leaking can be a distressing thing to witness in your basement, closet, attic or wherever it is kept. You probably have a lot of questions as to why this is happening, and what to do once you realize that it is. Do not worry; instead, follow these important steps and pointers on how to navigate through a water heater leak, and when to call in an expert.
Is The Water Is Coming From the Heater Itself?
You are probably wondering if that is a silly question to ask, but it is possible that the tank itself might not be leaking. Rather, the loose valves or pipes attached to it may be the source of the leak. Regardless, your first step should be turning off the water. If your heater is electric, turn off the electricity; if it runs on natural gas, turn off the gas supply before the professional begins repair.
Drain Your Tank
Next, you’ll need to drain your tank, exercising major caution as the water inside could be very hot. Inside, the tank is lined with glass separating the hot water from the metal structure. With extensive exposure to hot water, the glass can wear down and the water water can penetrate through the bottom. Also, with water of that temperature, minerals can calcify and cause debris in your tank that can make its way through your water or scratch the glass at the bottom Regardless, you need to safely drain the water slowly and in a sink or other location with a drain.
You Will Have to Replace Your Water Heater
If your water heater itself is leaking, there is likely no other option to save yourself more time and money long-term than to replace your water heater. You will not regret doing this; you want to have clean, reliable hot water for your home, and any upfront cost is well worth that. Not to mention that a water heater should be replaced every 10 years or so, so it is not a problem you should have to deal with again for a long time.
Call Reichelt Plumbing Today
At Reichelt Plumbing, we are experts at installing, maintaining, and repairing water heaters for all of our clients across Northwest Indiana and South Cook County in Illinois. We have been in business for over 25 years, and our homeowners are our number one priority in everything we do. Call us today at [phone].