How to Fix a Leaking Water Heater

Water heaters are essential in today's world. Hot showers, dish washing and laundry could not be done without a water heater. One of the most common water heater problems is leaking. You can always call a professional to fix it, but fixing a water heater leak yourself is entirely possible. Use this guide to help you fix your own water heater leak.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pipe wrench
• Bucket
• Flashlight

1. Look all around the immediate area to be sure the leak is coming from the water heater and/or its related components.

2. Dial down the thermostat on your water heater if the leak is coming from your temperature pressure relief valve. Sometimes excessively hot water makes this valve leak.

3. Flush the temperature relief valve into a bucket, and make sure there is nothing obstructing it. Lock it back in place, and see if the leak still exists.

4. Look on the outside bottom of the tank with a flashlight. Look for rust or corrosion that could cause tiny holes. If there is a hole, the water heater must be replaced.

5. Look inside the tank itself. If you see sitting rust in the bottom, there might be a microscopic hole you could not see on the outside. You will need to replace the water heater.

Tips & Warnings

• The best way to prevent water heater leaks is proper maintenance.
• Fix water heater leaks immediately. Leaks waste your money and could ruin carpet and subflooring.