Leaking Water Heater: Is This Dangerous? Here’s What To Do

If you’ve been experiencing water leaking from your water heater, you’re not alone. Leaking water heaters are one of the most common problems that homeowners face. But is this really something to worry about? 

In this blog post, we’ll answer the question, “is a leaking water heater dangerous?” and outline some tips you can utilize if you would like to try to fix the problem. Keep reading to learn more about leaking water heaters and the potential dangers!

Feel free to give this article a read if you’d like to learn about the dangers of water heater explosions.

What is a water heater and what does it do?

Homeowners rely on their plumbing system and hot water heater to supply them with hot water for bathing, cooking, washing dishes, and doing laundry. While most conventional water heaters store water in a tank, there are also tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand. 

Water heater units are typically powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane. The first step in selecting a new water heater is to decide which fuel source will be used. Electrical power is the most common fuel source for home water heaters, but it is also the most expensive. Propane and natural gas tend to be less expensive alternatives, but they require special venting that may not be available in all homes. 

The next step is to determine the capacity of the new unit. A water heater unit’s capacity is measured in gallons, and home water heaters range in size from 20 to 80 gallons. For families of four or more, a 50-gallon or larger unit is recommended.

Homeowners should also consider the warranty when selecting a new water heater. Warranties typically cover the tank and parts for three to twelve years. Tankless water heaters often have longer warranties than traditional units. Finally, homeowners should have their new unit installed by a licensed professional to ensure optimal performance and safety. 

Signs you may have a leaky water heater

Homeowners usually don’t think about their water heater until it stops working. However, there are some obvious signs that a water heater may be in need of repair or replacement before it fails completely. 

If you happen to notice any of the following signs, it’s best to call a professional plumbing service for an inspection and repairs:

Water gathering around the base of the water heater unit: This could be a sign of a leak in the tank or one of the pipes leading to or from the tank.

 

Higher than normal water bills: A sudden increase in your water usage could be due to a leaky water heater.

 

Rusty water: Have you noticed rust in your water? Rusty water could mean that the tank is starting to corrode. 

 

Strange noises: Popping, banging, or sizzling sounds coming from your water heater could indicate problems with the heating element or sediment buildup in the tank.

 

If you happen to notice any of the signs mentioned above, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional plumbing service. A leaky water heater can cause serious damage to your home if it’s not repaired quickly.

Why is a leaking water heater dangerous for homeowners?

So, is a leaking gas water heater dangerous for homeowners? Continue reading to learn the potential risks and dangers:

Further damage to unit

First, if the leak is not properly fixed, it could lead to further damage to the water heater, which could eventually result in a complete failure of the unit. 

Water damage in your home

A water heater unit that is leaking can cause water damage to the surrounding area, which can be expensive to repair. Water damage can also lead to mold and mildew, which can affect residents with respiratory issues.

Fire hazard in home

Finally, a leaking water heater can also be a fire hazard, so it is important to have the unit checked by an experienced plumber as soon as possible. 

While a leaking water heater may seem like a minor problem, it is important to take action to prevent further damage from occurring.

Now you know the answer to the common question, “is water heater leaking dangerous for homeowners?”.

Can you fix a leaking water heater?

Homeowners who have a leaking water heater often wonder if they can fix the problem themselves or if they need to call a professional. 

While it’s certainly possible to repair a leaking water heater, it’s important to understand that there are a number of factors that can contribute to the problem. 

In some cases, the tank may simply be old and need to be replaced. In other cases, there may be a problem with the pressure relief valve. And in other cases, the tank may be damaged and need to be repaired or replaced. 

If you’re not sure what’s causing the leak, it’s best to call a professional. 

Thankfully, professional plumbing companies have the experience and expertise to quickly diagnose and repair water heaters. Many professional plumbing companies also offer a warranty on their work, so you can rest assured that your leak will be fixed correctly.

How can you prevent water heater leaks?

The first step in preventing a water heater leak is to identify the source of the leak. If the tank is leaking profusely, then it is likely that the tank needs to be replaced. However, if the leak is coming from one of the pipes or fittings, then it may be possible to repair the leak without replacing the entire unit.

Once the source of the leak has been identified, you can take steps to prevent further damage. For example, if the leak is coming from a pipe, then you can shut off the water supply to that pipe and contact a plumber. If the leak is coming from the tank, then you should turn off the power to the water heater and call a professional for help. 

Regardless of the source of the leak, it is important to take action quickly to prevent further damage to your home.

Is a leaking water heater dangerous for homeowners? — Conclusion

Yes, a leaking water heater is quite dangerous. If your water heater is leaking, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumber right away.