Whether your home's water heater is fairly new or starting to age, it's not normal to see water around its base. Not only are leaks an inconvenient mess and waste of water, but they can indicate a more serious problem with the appliance. Before reaching out to a plumber, here's a closer look at the most common culprits behind a leaky water heater.

Why Is Your Water Heater Leaking?

1. Cold & Hot Water Connections

The appliance has two major connection points: Cold water goes in, and hot water comes out. Both of these connections should be checked for leaks, including the elbow joints where the lines turn toward the tank. Tightening, reconnecting, or replacing parts may be necessary to stop the leaking.

2. Drain Valve

The drain valve near the bottom of the heater tank can spring a leak if it needs to be replaced or if the seal is impacted by sediment buildup. If you want to test the part yourself, place a bucket beneath it and flush the water out to get rid of debris. If the leak is still present, the valve will likely need to be replaced.

3. Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve

Since hot water produces steam, this valve is necessary to relieve the pressure in the tank. It does this by draining some of the water. When leaking, water typically runs down the side of the tank. The valve could be faulty, or there could be a problem with excess pressure building within the tank, causing too much water to be expelled.

4. Tank Erosion

When a tank isn't flushed often enough—or if the unit is getting old—sediment buildup can cause the tank to erode. In this case, a leak at the bottom of the tank is most common. When erosion occurs, a replacement appliance is probably the only safe bet.

If you're concerned about a leak around your water heater, turn to the experts at Fred’s Plumbing & Heating Inc. Serving Eagle, CO, and the surrounding communities, the team is your go-to source for issues with plumbing or HVAC systems. From water heater installations to furnace tuneups, these professionals offer all the tools and expertise to provide your home with year-round comfort and prompt customer service. Call (970) 328-1095 to schedule a water heater checkup or visit their website to learn more about their services.