Reasons Why Your Water Heater Is Leaking From The Top
A leak in a water heater is never a good sign. Depending on where the water is coming from will determine how serious the issue may be. There are three possible areas where a leak can occur: the top, the bottom, or the water heater’s tank. While all leaks in any part of the appliance need prompt attention, we’ll focus today specifically on the reasons why the top of the water heater is leaking. First, you or your trusted plumber should look for the source of the leak. Top leaks from your water heater are likely the following:
The inlet valve is leaking
The valve that brings cold water from the main line to the water heater is called the cold water inlet valve. This valve rests on top of the water heater and can sometimes go bad, causing water to run from it. In other scenarios, the pipe fitting may have come loose and will only require a tightening. If it’s just a loose pipe fitting, use a wrench to tighten the lug nut, which should solve the issue. However, if the valve is leaking because the pipe fitting is damaged or old, it will need to be replaced.
The temperature pressure relief (TPR) valve is leaking
The TPR valve sits atop the water heater and is a safety valve to control the pressure or temperature of the unit. The valve opens when pressure or water levels rise, and it releases the hot water from inside, lowering the tank’s pressure. A properly functioning valve only drips a little from the bottom of the tank. If the TPR is leaking from the top, it suggests it is faulty or is not closing correctly. If either of these is true, professionally replace the drippy valve before the issue becomes more serious, like a burst water heater.
The anode rod is leaking
A water heater anode rod is designed to stop the water tank from wearing out over time as a result of corrosive materials that can collect in the tank. The anode rod is also referred to as a sacrificial anode rod because it absorbs the corrosive materials that would usually eat away at the tank. Unfortunately, because this rod attracts corrosive material, it too corrodes and requires replacement every so often. Once you can no longer use the anode rod, it will bubble or leak from the top of the tank. Again, this is a sign that it needs to be replaced.
It could also be something else altogether causing water to pool or gurgle atop your water heater. A drippy joint or pipe can lead to unknown issues throughout the home’s plumbing. In most situations, the unit needs to be repaired or replaced when leaking from the top of the water heater. If a simple wrench turn doesn’t fix a potentially loose valve or pipe, then consider hiring a plumber to inspect the system, diagnose the problem, and repair the leak. Ignoring these signs may lead to issues further down the line with the water pressure, tank, or general plumbing.
Water Wise Plumbing is a local, full-service residential plumbing company serving Las Vegas, Henderson, Paradise, Boulder City, Pahrump, and North Las Vegas. We provide Tankless water heater service, water softeners, water heater flush, leak detection and repair, water line rerouting, pipe installation, hydro-jetting, sewer services, and more. We are family-owned and operated, certified, and insured. We offer flat rate pricing and 24-hour emergency service.Call us today at (702) 605-6408.
