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Your water heater is a crucial component of your home that you never think about until something goes wrong. Since your water heater is often out of sight and located somewhere that people rarely frequent, issues can arise that lead to stressful situations. One of the most common problems is a leaking water heater. Whether you discover the leak during a cold shower or spot a puddle under your tank, this is an issue you will want to fix as soon as possible. The team at Fosh is here to share common causes of a leak and help you with the next steps to get your hot water restored. 

Common Causes of a Leaking Water Heater

Well-maintained water heaters can last a long time, anywhere from eight to twelve years. But as they get older and succumb to wear and tear, they can develop a host of problems, including pesky leaks. A leaking water heater does not necessarily need to be replaced, but you will want to fix the problem quickly to prevent water damage. The most common causes of a leak will require expert water heater services performed by a licensed plumber. In the meantime, you can shut off the water and power supply and try to pinpoint the location of the leak in preparation for your plumber’s arrival.  

Common causes of water heater leaks include:

• Age 
• Sediment buildup
• Pressure relief valve malfunction
• Drain valve clog
• Crack in the tank
• Inlet or outlet valve malfunction

In the event of a leak, your plumber will diagnose the problem and provide possible solutions to repair your water heater. The most common fixes for water heater leaks include:

• Water heater flush – A water heater involves your plumber draining the water from your tank and flushing out the sediment buildup. Sediment buildup causes high water pressure, loud banging sounds, and corrosion at the bottom of the tank.
• Parts replacement – Loose pipe fittings and the various valves that make up your water heater might need to be tightened or replaced.  
• Tank replacement – Sediment buildup causes corrosion, which can crack your tank. If you spot water leaking from the bottom of your tank, you will likely need a tank replacement. 
• Leak detector – As we mentioned above, your water heater is often found in a tucked-away space like a utility closet or basement. To prevent future leaks and water damage from happening, your plumber might suggest installing a leak detector. This device emits a loud signal at the first sign of a leak. 

Expert Water Heater Services Provided by Fosh Plumbing & Heating

If you need a reliable company to provide expert water heater repair services, contact the professionals at Fosh Plumbing & Heating today! We are the premier plumbing and heating specialists serving residential and commercial clients in and around the Greater Philadelphia area. Whether you have an emergency or just want to schedule routine maintenance for your water heater, our goal is to deliver the highest level of customer satisfaction. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.