Water heaters in Grand Junction, CO age, and eventually, you will probably find yours leaking in your home. When you make this ominous discovery, you need to recognize what’s happening and take steps to prevent further damage. Here is how to know there is a leak and what to do once one is discovered.
Signs of leaks
The first sign people notice when their water heaters are leaking is less water pressure, especially when taking a shower. If you do not have a well pump or know of any other reasons why this is happening, check your water heater. You may find these other signs if there is a leak:
- Water accumulation: You will often find puddles of water under the water heater or around the joints in the pipes. Sometimes, the source of this accumulation is obvious because you will see water spraying from a compromised pipe or a crack in the tank.
- Hot water fixtures do not work: If you turn on your washer for a hot water load or find you get cold water even when you use the hot water fixture, chances are the water heater is leaking. Sometimes, the pilot light will also go out in the event of a leak, and the tank will quit heating water, which is why you may suddenly find yourself without hot water.
- Pressure relief valve: Water leaving the pressure relief valve shows that the pressure exceeds safety limits. This is a very serious sign that requires immediate attention. Follow the steps for turning off your hot water heater and call a plumber.
Once you ascertain that your hot water heater is leaking, you will need to take precautions to prevent further damage.
After discovery
Ignored hot water leaks can lead to explosions, property damage, nonfunctioning heating elements and even bad water. If you have a gas heater, you also risk exposing your household to carbon monoxide. You need to arrange for swift repair or replacement and take precautionary steps to prevent damage from bad effects.
Once you discover your hot water tank is leaking, turn off the water heater. Most hot water heaters in Grand Junction, CO have a valve on the pipe leading into the tank. Turn this clockwise 90 degrees to stop water from entering the tank. You will likely hear the water stop flowing as you close off the pipe.
If there is any water accumulation, leave the puddles so the plumber can detect the leak more precisely. There is often the instinct to wipe them up immediately, but only do so if they make the area dangerous. As most water heaters are in enclosed areas with little foot traffic, this is unlikely to be an issue.
Finally, call an emergency plumber and address the issue immediately. Double Diamond Plumbing can repair water heaters in Grand Junction, CO and install a new one for you if the problem ends up being dire. Keep us in your contact list in case you find a leaking water heater or other plumbing emergency.