What to Do if Your Water Heater is Leaking

A leaking water heater may seem like a small problem, but it can quickly become a big issue if left unaddressed. Over time, standing water can eat through floorboards, sub-floors, and even walls. It can even cause mold growth, which presents a health threat in addition to creating water damage.

When you notice that your water heater is leaking, you need to address the problem right away. The things you must do once you realize that your water heater has sprung a leak include:

Step 1: Turn off your water main

This will stop the water flow ASAP. Because your tank will still have water in it after you turn off the water supply, you will be able to easily check where the leak is coming from even after the water main has been turned off.

Step 2: Turn off the power or the gas

You should turn off the gas or power that supplies your water heater with heat. This will help you properly locate the leak without fear of electrocution or gas leaking. It will also prevent you from scalding yourself on the hot tank.

Step 3: Wipe down your tank

You won’t be able to find where the leak is unless you wipe down your tank. Drying your tank with the help of a rag will help you determine whether the leak is located.

Step 4: Find out where the water is coming from

You need to determine where the leak is in order to properly remedy the issue. The puddle may be found at the bottom since it is pulled there by gravity, but the issue may be found higher up. The areas you need to check include:

• The cold water intake and the hot water output pipes
• The pressure relief valve
• The drain valve
• The bottom of your tank

You will also need to check if your water pressure is too high. That could be the reason your water heater is leaking. The right inbound pressure for your tank should be at 80 psi or lower. If the pressure is higher than 80, you should add a pressure reducing valve to your water heater.

Step 5: Contact a specialist for help

When you find the location of your water heater leak, you need to call a specialist for help. In the Greater Indianapolis area, the company to call is Midwest Remediation. We can help you repair the water damage that a leaking water heater can cause to your home. Aside from water heater leaks, we can also help you remedy water damage caused by toilet overflow, water pipe break, and flooding from the outside.

Simply contact us online or give us a call at (317) 826-0940 so we can help you repair whatever water damage issues your home may have.