A leaking hot water heater can be more than just a minor inconvenience—it can lead to significant water damage, higher utility bills, and can even be a sign of a more serious problem. Whether you’re in a house in Melbourne’s suburbs or an apartment in the CBD, knowing what to do when your hot water heater starts leaking can help you prevent further damage and resolve the issue efficiently.
In this guide, we’ll explain the steps you should take if you find your hot water heater leaking and discuss how to determine whether the leak can be fixed or if a replacement is needed.
Common Causes of a Hot Water Heater Leak
A leaking hot water heater can happen for several reasons:
- Corroded Tank: Over time, hot water tanks, particularly in older homes in suburbs like Fitzroy or Carlton, can corrode, leading to leaks.
- Loose Connections: The plumbing connections or fittings might become loose due to the expansion and contraction caused by heating, leading to water escaping.
- Faulty Pressure Relief Valve: The temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve may be faulty or under too much pressure, causing water to leak as a safety measure.
- Cracked Tank: Temperature changes can cause the tank to expand and contract, sometimes resulting in a cracked tank—this is particularly common if the unit is old.
Steps to Take If Your Hot Water Heater Is Leaking
1. Turn Off the Power Supply
The first thing you should do is turn off the power supply to the water heater:
- Electric Water Heater: Locate your home’s circuit breaker and turn off the switch to the hot water heater. This will prevent any electrical hazards from occurring if water reaches the internal wiring.
- Gas Water Heater: If your heater is gas-powered, switch the gas shut-off valve to the “off” position to ensure safety.
2. Shut Off the Water Supply
Once the power is off, you need to shut off the water supply to prevent further leakage. The shut-off valve for the heater is usually located on the cold water pipe coming into the unit. Turn it clockwise to close it.
If you’re unable to find the valve, or if it’s not working, you can shut off the main water supply to your home. This is especially useful for those in older Melbourne properties where valves may be more difficult to locate.
3. Drain the Water Heater
If the leak is significant, you’ll want to drain the tank to prevent water from causing further damage to your flooring or walls. To drain the tank:
- Attach a hose to the drain valve located near the bottom of the tank.
- Run the hose to a safe drainage area, like a drain or outside.
- Open the drain valve to start draining the tank. Be careful, as the water may be very hot.
This is a temporary solution to prevent damage, especially if you’re in a multi-level home in suburbs like Malvern or Kew, where a leak could affect several floors.
4. Determine the Source of the Leak
Understanding the source of the leak will help you decide whether a repair or replacement is necessary. Here’s what to look for:
- Top of the Tank: If the leak is coming from the top of the tank, it could be due to a loose connection or faulty valve. This is usually fixable without needing to replace the entire unit.
- Bottom of the Tank: If water is leaking from the bottom of the tank, it might indicate a more serious issue like a cracked tank or internal corrosion. In this case, replacement is usually necessary.
- Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve: If the T&P valve is leaking, it may be due to excessive pressure, or the valve itself could be faulty. Replacing the valve may solve the problem, but it’s best to have a licensed plumber assess the situation.
5. Call a Licensed Plumber
A leaking hot water heater is not something you want to ignore or attempt to fix without professional help. Once you’ve shut off the power and water supply, call a licensed plumber. At Any Hour Plumbing & Gas, we provide prompt service across Melbourne and surrounding suburbs to help you repair or replace your hot water heater before the problem worsens.
6. Clean Up the Area
While waiting for the plumber to arrive, clean up any standing water to prevent further damage to your home. Use towels, a mop, or a wet/dry vacuum if necessary. This will help reduce the risk of mold and mildew, especially if the leak is in an area like a garage or basement in suburbs such as Brighton or St Kilda.
Is It Time to Repair or Replace Your Hot Water Heater?
A key question when dealing with a leaking water heater is whether it’s more cost-effective to repair or replace the unit. Here are some considerations:
- Age of the Heater: Most hot water heaters last between 8-12 years. If your unit is nearing the end of its lifespan and starts leaking, replacement is often the best choice to avoid ongoing repairs.
- Severity of the Leak: Small leaks due to loose connections or a faulty valve can often be repaired. However, a cracked tank or corrosion usually requires a complete replacement.
- Energy Efficiency: If your heater is old, replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model may save you money in the long run by reducing energy consumption.
Preventing Hot Water Heater Leaks
1. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent leaks before they happen. Schedule annual maintenance for your hot water heater, especially if you live in older Melbourne neighborhoods like Hawthorn or Coburg.
2. Check the Pressure Relief Valve
The T&P relief valve should be checked regularly to ensure it’s functioning properly. If it’s faulty or leaking, replace it before it leads to bigger issues.
3. Flush the Tank Annually
Sediment buildup is a common cause of leaks, particularly for homes in Melbourne where water quality can vary. Flushing your tank annually helps remove this buildup and keeps your heater working efficiently.
Conclusion
A leaking hot water heater is a situation that requires quick action. Shutting off the power and water supply, draining the tank, and calling a licensed plumber are all essential steps to take to protect your home and resolve the issue. If you’re experiencing a leaking hot water heater in Melbourne, don’t hesitate—reach out to Any Hour Plumbing & Gas for prompt and professional service.
Need help with a leaking hot water heater? Contact us today for reliable repairs and replacements across Melbourne and its suburbs.