Water Heater Leak

WhatsApp to Start Now!

WhatsApp to Start Now!

Table of Contents (click on the sub-topic to get to the section you want)

• • Signs of Water Heater Failure

• Tips to Identify Water Heater Leaks And Fix It
• FAQs

Signs of Water Heater Failure

The invention of water heaters has brought convenience to many especially when it comes to taking warm showers. There are three types of heaters – instant water heater, storage water heater, and a multipoint water heater. Since water heaters are used daily, it is important that you know how to identify water heater leaks to aid you through the water heater repair process. However, repair works might not always be the solution and a water heater replacement needs to be done by a plumber. Here are some signs you may notice when your water heater is failing: 

Rusty water  

A typical shower would have clear water coming out of your shower heads. When rusty water appears, it could be a sign that rusting is occurring inside your water heater. Another possibility for rusty water is the presence of rusty pipes. As such, you should engage a professional plumber to provide their water heater services which include inspecting the water heater and if need be, to replace it.  

Water on surface of heater 

It is uncommon for water to appear on the surface of your water heater. If that happens, it could be an indication of fracture or tiny leak in your water heater tank. It is possible for expansion to happen especially when the metal heats up, causing a fracture, resulting in a leakage. When the metal cools, leakage from the inner tank may come to a stop. Thus, you will observe water on the surface of the heater instead of a constant leakage. It is recommended that you get a water heater replacement and here is our price list. 

Noise and rumbling 

Build-up of sediments may appear on the bottom tank of a water heater. When the sediments get heated up repeatedly, it will end up hardening and cause rattling or rumbling noises within the water heater. This could be a signal that your water heater is not in a good working condition anymore and you would need to consider installing a new water heater. Choose from a variety of popular water heater brands such as Ariston, Rheem Joven, 707, Champs, Rubine, Bennington, and Everhot. 

Burnt tank bottom 

Burn marks found on the bottom of your water heater could suggest two possible issues – improper venting and damaged pipes. We do not recommend repairing the water heater as nothing can be done to salvage it. We advise you to quickly repair it also as it might lead to electric shocks while taking a shower. Instead, get the water heater replaced with better quality ones that you can find in the market. 

If you notice any of the signs above, get your water heater repaired or replaced immediately. Despite trying to save money on plumbing, prolonging the use of your faulty water heater could be harmful to you. Call an experienced plumber and he should be able to advise you on your water heaters.  

Tips to Identify Water Heater Leaks and Fix It

A leaking instant water heater or storage water heater might appear as a small problem but could eventually snowball into a major issue. When left untreated, you could experience flooding which damages your wall and flooring due to seepage. One of the things about water leakage is the result of a higher water bill which you would want to avoid. These wet and damp areas are also known to cause mould or lead to asthma and allergic responses. If faced with such issues, you should engage a plumber to get the job done. But before that, here are a few tips on how to identify water heater leaking problems and solve them. 

1. Condensation on surface of heater tank 

Condensation happens when the water heater tank is filled with cold water, leading to drips or water vapor. You may even observe this situation during colder months or when the tank is filled for the first time. For instance, those using gas water heaters would notice condensation happening that may also arise from the vent. If your water heater is having such symptoms, it is not a sign of leakage but merely condensation. 

2. Leaking storage water heater tank 

Water heaters in Singapore have a shorter life span (<10 years) compared to other home appliances. When the water heater starts leaking or producing rust-coloured water, it is an indication of corrosion in tanks. This is when you should hire a professional plumber to get your water heater tank replaced. Meanwhile, you can attach a hose to the drain valve of the water heater to have the tank emptied. When the tank fully empties, you will have water flowing out through the hose. 

3. Leaking valve for temperature-pressure relief 

It is common for dripping to occur from the valve or water heater tank for temperature-pressure (TP) relief. The heater tank is designed to remove water when excess pressure is sensed. This can be caused by excessive pressure buildup when temperature is too high, if the special valves meant to lower water pressure in the heater disables expansion of water inside the tank, or when the pressure of the primary water supply to home is too strong. The TP relief valve could also be flawed in some cases, and have to be immediately replaced. You should call an experienced plumber to handle the task especially when there are a lot of technicalities involved.  

4. Leakage from drain valve 

Water heater leakage can also occur from its drain valve. Check whether the drain valve of the water heater is dripping. In case it does, there is a need to tighten the drain valve to address the leaks. But should you encounter a defective valve, it is recommended to replace it, preferably by Everyworks Plumber Singapore. 

Besides a water heater leakage, there are also other easy ways to detect various leakages in your home. You may also find out more about the other signs that your water heater may be failing soon. Ensure you call a plumber specialist that is able to aid you through thorough inspection and the necessary plumber works.