Top Causes of Water Heater Leaks and Overflows

Some people tend to ignore water heater leaks and overflows, until the problem becomes bigger. Ignoring a leaking water heater can lead to more than just wet floors and wasted water. It can actually lead to such problems as damaged structural integrity of walls and floors due to water saturation, formation of molds, and even flooding.

What causes water heaters to leak or to overflow? The cause of the problem is usually easy enough to detect with some careful investigation and observing where the leak is coming from, as well as where the water seems to be gathering. To help you understand what these issues are, here are some of the main reasons for this problem:

• Water pressure is too high – if you notice water spraying from any of the pipes near the heater, or there is some flooding at the base of your water heater, it is possible that the water pressure is too high. This can mean that water is leaking from the pipe connections leading to and from your water heater. This can also mean that your water tank temperature is too high, and is causing the T&P valve to stay open continuously, which can be the cause of the leak.
• Your water heater tank is old and corroded – water heaters, much like everything else around us, have set life spans, and if you have an old water heater tank that has been around for more than ten years, there is a huge possibility that the leak stems from rust and corrosion.
• The water heater was not properly maintained – to keep things running smoothly, and to prevent damage from occurring, maintenance is needed, especially with things that have running and mechanical parts. If your water heater does not undergo regular maintenance checks and routines, it will definitely develop a leak at some point in time.
• You have a faulty temperature and pressure valve – the T&P valve can leak when it is filled with dirt and debris. Cleaning it may get rid of the leak, but if it continues to drip after it has been cleaned, a replacement may be needed.
• Pipes leading to and from your tank have holes – the problem may not even be your water heater but the pipes that feed it water or send hot water out. You should have these checked to ensure that there are no leaks or holes in these pipes and that these are properly installed leading to and from your water heater.

When you notice that your water heater is leaking or overflowing, it is a good idea for you to get in touch with someone who can help you to not only assess and diagnose the problem, but to also remedy it. Simply call LMS Restoration at 903-229-4846 to find out more about water heater problems and solutions. Our service area includes the surrounding communities in the states of Oklahoma and Texas.