We’ve all been there— we notice a seemingly small issue in our home and ignore it until we have the time to take care of it. Yet, those small issues can pile up until there are too many other things to do! One problem that is easy to ignore is a water heater leak. But is it ok to use your water heater if it’s leaking?
At After Hour Plumbing & Drain, we perform reliable water heater services in Monterey! It’s okay to use water if your unit is leaking, but you should limit your use. We know how serious a water heater leak can be, so we’re here to share why you should minimize your system use if you notice this issue.
Risks Of Using A Leaking Water Heater
Although most water heater leaks won’t lead to an explosion, it’s always a good idea to shut off the heater to prevent potential risks. Different leaks indicate different issues, all of which need to be addressed before the heater is used again.
Water Pooling Under The Heater
Sometimes, water will pool underneath the heater, either in the drain pan or on the ground. This is usually caused by a leaking drain valve, which either needs to be twisted shut or replaced, depending on the situation.
However, pooling water can also be caused by a cracked tank. Either way, you’ll need to take care of the leak as soon as you can to prevent water damage around the heater. The water leaking from the heater will be extremely hot, which can also lead to injury.
Water Leaking From The Pressure Valve
The most dangerous leak is from the pressure valve. If your pressure valve is dripping, this means that the pressure is very high inside the water heater. In severe cases, this can lead to an explosion, which can be very dangerous for anyone inside your home.
If you notice water leaking from this valve, shut off the heater immediately and contact a professional. Although it’s easy to ignore a small leak, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Schedule a water heater repair to determine the cause of the mounting pressure, and make sure the thermostat isn’t set higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Water Leaking From The Top Of The Heater
A leak from the top of the heater is usually caused by loose pipe connections. Your heater receives cold water from one pipe and transports hot water through another. Water can easily leak out if either of these pipes is loose or cracked.
It’s always best to shut off the water heater before performing any repairs, especially if the dripping water is hot. Sometimes, you can solve the problem by tightening the connection between the pipe and the heater. However, if the pipe is cracked, you’ll need to replace it.
Minimize Home Hazards With Hot Water Heater Repair
In most cases, it’s safe to use a small amount of water even if the heater is leaking. However, gas and electric water heaters have individual risks that can create dangerous issues in your home. A professional should inspect your system to help you avoid severe hazards, such as electric shock, fire or explosions.
Conquering Water Heater Leak Repair In Monterey
As soon as you notice a water heater leak, shut off the water heater and contact a plumber for assistance. As you now know, it can be dangerous to ignore a leak. Thankfully, most leaks aren’t too serious, so you shouldn’t have to replace the entire heater each time you notice this problem.
If you’re looking for a water heater repair, After Hour Plumbing & Drain is here to help. We’re experts in hot water heater repairs and are prepared to help you conquer that pesky leak and check a task off your to-do list! Contact us today to schedule an appointment!