Homeowners across Spokane expect their water heater to be a consistent source of warm water year round. This appliance is built to last. It is not, however, indestructible. A leaking water heater signals a serious problem that needs to be addressed right away. A water heater leak could leave you without hot water for the foreseeable future. It can cost you an untold amount of money by driving up your water bills. It can even be dangerous.
The Dangers Of Water Heater Leaks
A hot water heater leak can result in severe property damage. Flooding can quickly damage the walls and floorboards of your home. Your furniture and personal belongings are likewise in harm’s way. A moist environment will also allow mold and mildew to thrive, further damaging your property. If this is the situation you find yourself in, emergency water heater repair is required. A leaking water heater can also pose a threat to you and your family. Pressure builds inside the tank as the water is heated. This pressure is slowly released through a safety valve. A leak can cause security features such as this to malfunction. If this happens, the pressure in the tank will continue to build until it explodes. To be clear, this is incredibly rare. However, when it comes to hot water heater leaks, it’s best not to take any chances.
How To Identify A Water Heater Leak
Quickly locating the source of the leak can prevent the need for major repairs or even water heater replacement. Generally speaking, a leak at the top of your water heater is good news. This is where plumbing pipes are attached to the appliance. In most cases, the leak is emanating from the valves and pipes attached to the water heater. Over time, they can become dislodged or damaged. Luckily, repairing and replacing them is easy. A leak coming from the bottom of the tank is far more serious. This likely means that the tank itself is damaged. If this is the case, hot water heater replacement is unavoidable. Proactively investigating your water heater can make a huge difference. If you suspect a hot water heater leak, observe and report.
What Can I Do About A Water Heater Leak?
When you encounter a water heater leak, it’s time to contact a professional plumber. The Mainstream team is on standby and ready to be dispatched to your home whenever you need us. In the meantime, you can take action to prevent serious property damage. Start by shutting off your water heater. Electric models can be disabled at the circuit breaker box. Gas models have a simple on/off switch. In order to prevent your water heater from continuing to refill, you should also engage its shut-off valve. This will cut the connection to your home’s plumbing system. Once you’ve given us a call and taken these additional steps, just sit tight! Our team will be right with you.
Mainstream has been providing expert plumbing repair service to Spokane County and Northern Idaho for over two decades. Our team of home service professionals are trained, experienced, and equipped to provide 5-star service with every visit. We guarantee competitive, upfront, and transparent pricing after diagnosing your water heater. When you need plumbing service at your home in Spokane, WA and beyond, the choice is obvious.
