As a homeowner, we’re always dreading those big-ticket expenses. We have a tendency to pretend your plumbing problem doesn’t exist. It’s always good to keep a sharp eye out for leaking appliances, and that includes your hot water heater. Our water heaters usually sit in the corner of our garage somewhere and rarely ever get any attention. Most homeowners don’t know that it’s important to provide basic maintenance to your water heater every year by draining the storage tank of hard water deposits. Necessary maintenance can extend the life of your water heater and help it to perform better. If your hot water heater is leaking from the storage tank, call a plumber! A water heater that’s leaking can cause significant damage and rack up some major repair costs.
Corrosion Can Get The Upper Hand On Your Water Heater
A water heater is built to withstand rust, but over many years of use, corrosion can cause problems. If your heater is ten years or older and shows signs of corrosion, you may want to replace it. Most people wait until the water heater breaks down completely before purchasing a new one. Replacing a water heater before it breaks down is a wise choice. Water heaters with the latest technologies will not only protect your home from possible water damage, it can also save a homeowner as much as 30% in utility cost compared to models dating back ten years.
A Broken Drain Valve Is Another Way Your Hot Water Heater Can Leak
A broken drain valve is another reason a water heater can start to leak. Some of the drain valves are made of plastic while others made of brass. Obviously, those made of plastic tend to leak. The brass valves are much more reliable. Either way, this is an easy fix for your plumbing expert.
Your Pipes Can Corrode And Loosen
The pipes that bring in cold water into your hot water heater to be heated can corrode or loosen and start to leak, especially if not initially installed correctly. The same holds true for the pipes that carry water to our faucets and showers in the home. This is also an easy fix for your licensed plumbing professional.
Check Your Temperature Pressure Valves
Another common reason your water heater will leak is a broken temperature pressure valve (T&P). When water is heated, it will expand and release steam. The T&P valve allows excess water and steam to escape. Again, replacing a T&P valve is not complicated and requires a simple replacement.
Final Decision – Do I Repair Or Replace?
Sometimes we have to come to the final decision whether to replace your water heater or repair it. When it comes to that point, consider some of the following questions:
- What is the cost of repair?
- What is the cost of buying a hot water heater?
- How much can I recover in energy cost-savings, and over what period?
- Does my water heater show signs of rust?
- How old is my water heater?
We’ve all heard the saying, “You get what you pay for.” Well, the same holds true for hot water heaters. Don’t set out to find the cheapest water heater, that will never work out in your favor. Explore your options and remember your water heater may be providing hot water for your family for the next 10 to 15 years.