Leaking Hot Water System? Here’s What To Do!

A leakage in any part of the plumbing system at home can leave you at your wit’s end.

Even if you don’t have the technical skills to fix the problem right away, leaving it unchecked isn’t an option. Leaks in a hot water system can be a real headache, even for the calmest folks. Having a plan in place can save you a lot of stress if your system springs a leak.

That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to help you take immediate action if you face a leak. Read on to find out more.

Leaking Hot Water System? Here’s What To Do!

Leaks in your hot water system often start at the outlet or inlet connections, or around the pressure relief valve or tank. If you ignore them, these leaks can lead to mould, which brings along health issues.

So, it’s crucial to identify a leakage before it worsens to cause further problems in the plumbing system. Here are some common reasons behind a hot water system leak:

1. Excessive Pressure

Excessive pressure might build up in the heater tank, leading to leakages. This is most likely to happen when the external water source flows into the heater tank at high pressure or when the water temperature is too high.

2. Broken Storage Tank

The storage tanks in these heaters are lined with glass. Over time, minerals in the water can build up and harden on the inside, eventually causing the glass lining to crack and leak.

It’s also important to remember that water expands when heated. This expansion can strain or break the glass lining over time. If that happens, you’ll need a new water heater because those cracks in the liner aren’t something you can fix.

However, in a few cases, such leaks may not affect the functioning of the unit, so people might choose to postpone the replacement. Till a leakage isn’t inflicting damage upon the system, it’s usable, but you’ll have to replace it eventually.

3. Ageing Of Hot Water Systems

Can you remember the last time you had the hot water system in your home replaced or serviced? Most of these systems come with an average service life of 10 years.

If your water heater is getting on in years or has already surpassed its expected lifespan, it’s time to replace or service it without delay.

That’s because as it nears the end of its life, the heater’s efficiency can drop, potentially leading to breakdowns. Sediment and muck might end up flowing into your bath, shower, sink, or other appliances.

That’s why monitoring your hot water system is of prime importance. On a side note, ensure the company you’re hiring checks all plumbing lines connected to the heater for water or gas leaks.

4. Other Reasons

Loose fixtures and irregular draining are other reasons your hot water system might leak. Though you might consider taking care of the issue yourself, the best and safest way is to contact a professional. This will rule out potential long-term and expensive damage to your property.

The Steps To Follow To Fix A Leakage

Now, let’s look at some easy steps to take to tackle such leakages:

Step 1: Identifying The Leakage

A. Leak in The P&R Valve

A leak in the Thermal Expansion Valve (also called the Pressure Relief Valve) is often the root cause of all water heater problems. This implies that the pressure in the tank is probably too much to handle. Note that though it’s one of the simplest faults to fix, it’s quite an alarming problem.

• Owing to the increased pressure within the heater, the pressure relief valve relieves pressure by a little water leakage
• Just lift this valve two or three times so that any blockage is cleared, and that should stop the leakage
• But if the valve is spraying scalding water, it’s probably worn out, and you’ll need to purchase a replacement valve

B. Leaking/Loose Water Supply Joints

• The plumbing pipes and joints around and above the heater are other common spots where you might find the leak
• A leak or drip in these parts can often create the impression that the leakage lies in the hot water system
• Such pipes are initial indications that the heater will need a replacement in the near future

C. Issues With Drainage Valves

The drainage valve at the lower end of the heater is another probable spot where the problem might occur.

• This valve often doesn’t close properly, which might result in water leakage.
• The fix to this problem is simple — the plumber will drain the water in the heater and replace the valve with a new one.
• But before you call a local plumber, you’ll have to cease the leakage temporarily with a foreign object to ensure the safety of the property.

Step 2: Turning Off The Main Valve

The next step will be to isolate the water or gas supply by shutting off the respective inlet valves and the main supply valve in the house.

• Turn off the water valve on the inlet pipe
• Fill some buckets with water for the daily chores
• Locate the water mains and shut them off

Note that most homes include the water mains alongside their homes or front yards. But if you live in an apartment, you may find it under your laundry tub or sink.

Step 3: Calling In Hot Water System Experts

When you can temporarily cease the leakage, it’s time to hire a trusted plumbing service to fix the leakage.

• Ensure the team professionals are licensed, insured, and experienced enough to handle the issue.
• If the leakage is part of a larger problem, the company must be able to replace parts to resolve it permanently correctly.

Nowadays, quality service providers use advanced tools and techniques like Radio pipe location, Thermal Imaging, and drain CCTVs to fix leaks. These modern methods help ensure accurate and effective repairs.

Fixing Issues With Your Hot Water System

There you have it — a straightforward guide on efficiently handling a leaking hot water system.

We hope you’ll be more confident in taking the above steps when you face such problems. And don’t forget to conduct proper research on the few trusted plumbing companies in your region before choosing to hire one of them.

If you are in Melbourne or the surrounding suburbs, speak to the WP Plumbing team. We are Melbourne’s hot water experts, so if you call us, we’ll provide honest advice with no hidden fees. We can also help you choose a hot water heater that suits your family’s needs.

See you next time!