Generally speaking, water heaters work well with regular maintenance and care, but as with most appliances, problems do occur, one of which is a water heater leak. The leak could be due to loose valves, a corroded tank, or even just condensation during cold temperatures. However, there are certain dangers associated with a leaking water heater.
- Potential Explosion: If the relief valve is damaged or broken, or if the water temperature is set too high, pressure can build up in the tank and cause an explosion.
- Broken Heating Element: If you suspect this is broken, turn off the water supply and drain all the water from the tank before you replace the gasket. Before turning the water back on, run hot water in a sink to prevent further damage.
- Bad Water: If the water heater leak is due to a rusty pipe, there’s extra danger to the water supply because it has been exposed to rust. This bad water will be distributed throughout your home and expose your family to potentially harmful bacteria and chemicals.
- Property Damage: One of the biggest dangers of a water heater leak is damage to the surrounding walls and floor. This can lead to mold growth and even seep into your home’s foundation, which ultimately weakens it, causing an array of other problems.
If you’re looking for a well-established, reliable, trustworthy and professional plumber in the Tri-county area of NC, contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services. Family owned and operated, we have been serving residents and businesses for more than 35 years. We’re available 24 hours a day for emergency services.