#1 Source of Water Damages

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Water Heaters are the number one cause of water damages in the home.

1/13 – Top Sources: Hot Water Heater  

In a previous blog we discussed the top three reasons our clients experienced water damages in 2019. The number-one source of water damages was a leaking or malfunctioning hot water heater, a trend our colleagues across the country also report. With this knowledge, and a few useful tips, you can take steps to prevent the possibility of any damage in your own home. In this blog, we will discuss a few reasons why water heaters may leak, and what you can do if it happens in your home or business.  

For homeowners with tank water heaters, the most common mechanism for heating water, knowing and paying attention to these common issues can help prevent an unfortunate situation:  

• Drain Valve 

One of the most common reasons for a water heater to leak is a loose drain valve. The drain valve will slowly leak water if this happens. Good news - this is an easy fix. All you need to do is a grab a wrench and tighten the valve. It is extremely important that you do not over tighten it; just turn it enough without forcing it. 

• Too Much Pressure 

When the tank begins to build up too much pressure it can also cause a leak to form. When this happens, the excess pressure will force the water to leak out of the tank to reduce the pressure. Typically this occurs if the temperature on your water heater is set too high. 

Another thing that can lead to excess water pressure is if the exterior water supply to a house comes in at too high a pressure. A defective temperature pressure relief valve can also lead to an excess buildup of pressure in a hot water heater. 

These are all simple fixes but may require a licensed plumber to ensure it is done properly. 

•  Old Tank 

Although hot water heaters are designed to last for a long time, as they approach the end of their life cycles, rusting and corrosion start to cause an issue. When the corrosion gets bad enough, it can start to allow the water from the tank to leak out. When this happens, it is a definite sign that the hot water heater needs to be replaced. If you do not replace it, it can cause complete failure of the tank which in turn could flood your home. 

• Condensation 

Sometimes the hot water heater will trick homeowners into thinking there is a leak when there is in fact nothing wrong. It is normal and natural for condensation to show on the outside of the tank. When cold water first enters the inside of the tank, it can lead to condensation when the outside air is hot. This is not an issue to be concerned with. 

Regular maintenance and awareness can help mitigate the possibility of a hot water heater leak and a house flood. If you experience a flood in your home, be sure to call SERVPRO of West Pasco and we will make it “Like it never even happened.”