Singapore Plumbing Works

Repair Leaking Water Heater

A leaky water heater can quickly escalate from a minor inconvenience to a major headache if left unattended. As a homeowner in Singapore, it’s essential to address this issue promptly to prevent water damage and ensure the continued functionality of your water heating system.

In this guide, we’ll explore the common causes of water heater leaks, how to identify them, and the steps you can take to repair your leaking water heater or to mitigate the damage effectively.

Signs of a Leaking Water Heater: Early Detection

The first step in addressing a leaky water heater is recognizing the signs of trouble. Look out for:

• Puddles of water around the base of your water heater.
• Dampness or discoloration on surrounding walls or floors.
• Any unusual odors emanating from the unit.
• Unexpected increases in your water bills, as a leaky water heater can lead to wasteful water consumption and higher utility costs.

What Causes an Electric Water Heater to Leak?

Several factors can contribute to a leaky water heater, including:

1. Wear and Tear: Over time, components within the water heater may deteriorate, leading to leaks.

2. Poor Installation: Incorrectly installed or poorly fitted plumbing connections can result in water leakage.

3. Corrosion: Rust or corrosion of internal components, such as the temperature and pressure valve (TP valve) or heating element, can cause leaks.

4. Lack of Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance tasks, such as flushing the water heater to remove sediment buildup, can exacerbate existing issues and lead to leaks.

By understanding these potential causes, homeowners can better assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action – repair the leaking water heater and/or certain parts, or replace the entire unit.

How to Locate Leak in Water Heater: A Systematic Approach

When faced with a leaky water heater, it’s essential to conduct a thorough inspection to pinpoint the source of the leak.

• Start by checking the connections of the cold and hot water pipes, ensuring they are securely fastened and free from damage.
• Next, examine the temperature and pressure valve (TP valve) and overflow tube for signs of wear or malfunction.
• Finally, inspect the drain valve and heating element for corrosion or rust buildup.

Taking Action: Repair the Leaking Water Heater

Once you’ve identified the source of the leak, it’s time to take action. Depending on the severity of the issue, repairs may range from simple fixes to more complex interventions. Common repair tasks include:

1. Tightening Connections: Ensuring all plumbing connections are secure and properly sealed.

2. Replacing Faulty Components: Installing new temperature and pressure valves (TP valves), drain valves, or heating elements as needed.

3. Addressing Corrosion: Treating rust or corrosion on internal components and replacing damaged parts.

4. Performing Maintenance: Flushing the water heater to remove sediment buildup and improve overall performance.

Persistent and severe leaks can result in costly water damage to our ceilings, cabinets, and flooring. In addition, damp conditions encourage the growth of mould and mildew, which can affect the health of everyone at home.

For homeowners uncomfortable with DIY repairs or facing more significant issues, seeking professional assistance from a qualified plumber is advisable. All our plumbers at Singapore Plumbing Works can accurately diagnose the problem and implement effective solutions, saving time and minimizing further damage for you.

How to Care for Your Water Heater: Maintenance

Preventing future leaks and enhancing your water heater’s longevity requires proactive maintenance and care.

• Make it a habit to schedule regular inspections of your water heater.
• Flush the water tank annually to remove sediment buildup and extend its lifespan.
• Consider investing in a water leak detection system to alert you to potential issues before they escalate.

Ensuring Peace of Mind

A leaky water heater is a common concern for homeowners in Singapore, but with proper attention and maintenance, it need not be a source of stress.

By understanding the causes of leaks, conducting regular inspections, and promptly addressing any issues that arise, you can enjoy reliable hot water and peace of mind knowing your water heater is in good working order.

Remember, when in doubt, don’t hesitate to enlist the expertise of our trusted plumbers to ensure the job is done right.

Contact us for help with your electric instant water heater or storage water heater today!