A leaking hot water heater is more than an inconvenience—it can lead to water damage, higher utility bills, and even complete system failure if left untreated. If you’ve noticed water pooling around your unit, it’s important to act quickly. Understanding the common causes of leaks can help you determine whether you need hot water heater repair in Weaverville or Asheville, NC, or if it’s time for a hot water heater replacement.
1. Loose or Faulty Connections
Over time, the inlet and outlet connections on your water heater can become loose due to constant expansion and contraction. If the leak comes from the top of the unit, checking and tightening these connections may resolve the problem. If the issue persists, professional hot water heater repair may be necessary.
2. A Worn-Out or Failing Pressure Relief Valve
The temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve is a safety feature that releases excess pressure from the tank. If this valve is malfunctioning or there’s too much pressure inside the tank, it can cause leaking. Replacing the T&P valve is a common fix, but if high pressure is the root cause, a professional inspection is essential.
3. Internal Tank Corrosion
Tank water heaters have a protective anode rod that attracts corrosive elements, causing them to erode the rod instead of your tank. If rust or sediment buildup leads to small cracks or holes, water will start leaking from the tank. Unfortunately, when this happens, a replacement hot water heater is usually the best option.
4. Drain Valve Issues
The drain valve, located near the bottom of the tank, allows for periodic flushing during hot water heater maintenance. It may start dripping if it’s not fully closed or has a worn-out seal. Tightening the valve might solve the issue, but replacing the valve is the next step if the leak continues.
5. Excessive Tank Pressure
If your water heater is set to an extremely high temperature or if there’s excessive pressure in your plumbing system, your unit may start leaking from the T&P valve. The dripping, or steady flow of water, from your pressure relief (T&P) is protecting the rest of your plumbing system from being over-pressurized. This is typically a sign of a failed thermostat, ruptured expansion tank, or a malfunctioning PRV (pressure reducing valve) and should be repaired immediately. This is a serious issue that requires professional attention.
6. Age of the Water Heater
Most water heaters last between 8–12 years. If your unit is nearing or exceeding this lifespan and experiencing leaks, replacement may be more cost-effective than repair. Our team at Bolton Services provides expert hot water heater services to ensure you have a reliable and efficient system in place.
Contact Bolton Services for Expert Water Heater Solutions
A leaking water heater is a problem that shouldn’t be ignored. Whether you need hot water heater maintenance, repairs, or a full hot water heater replacement, Bolton Services has you covered. We provide top-quality hot water heater installation, and expert repairs in Asheville and surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep your hot water running efficiently!
