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Water Heater Leaking? DIY Troubleshooting Guide for North Arlington Homeowners

  • Writer: Susan Bell
    Susan Bell
  • Oct 22
  • 4 min read

A water heater leaking can be a stressful problem for any homeowner. It can not only damage your floors and walls, but also disrupt your daily routine by leaving you with cold showers or no hot water. If you live in North Arlington, NJ, and are facing this issue, there’s good news: many leaks can be diagnosed and sometimes fixed at home before calling a professional. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to identify, troubleshoot, and prevent water heater leaking problems.

water heater leaking

Understanding Water Heater Leaks

Before you start troubleshooting, it’s essential to understand why water heaters leak. Most leaks fall into one of these categories:

  1. Tank Leaks: This occurs when the water tank itself is damaged, often due to rust or corrosion.

  2. Pipe or Connection Leaks: These are caused by loose or damaged plumbing fittings.

  3. Pressure Relief Valve Leaks: The valve may open if pressure inside the tank is too high or if it’s malfunctioning.

  4. Drain Valve Leaks: If the drain valve isn’t fully closed, it can slowly drip water.

Knowing the type of leak can help you decide whether it’s a simple DIY fix or requires professional help.


Safety First: What to Do Before You Start

Before inspecting your water heater, make sure to follow these safety steps:

  • Turn Off the Power or Gas: For water heaters, turn off the breaker. For gas models, shut off the gas supply.

  • Turn Off the Water Supply: Locate the cold water supply line at the top of your heater and shut it off.

  • Drain Excess Water if Needed: Place a bucket under the leak to catch dripping water and avoid damage to your floors.


Step-by-Step DIY Troubleshooting for Water Heater Leaks


1. Inspect the Leak Source

The first step is identifying where the water is coming from:

  • Tank Base: If water is pooling around the bottom, it’s likely a tank leak.

  • Pipes and Fittings: Check the cold and hot water pipes for drips.

  • Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve: Look for water around the valve on the tank's side or top.

  • Drain Valve: Make sure the valve is fully closed.


2. Tighten Loose Connections

Sometimes the fix is as simple as tightening loose fittings:

  • Use a wrench to carefully tighten the water inlet and outlet connections.

  • Be aware not to overtighten, as this can damage the pipes or fittings.


3. Check the TPR Valve

The temperature and pressure relief valve prevents excessive pressure buildup:

  • Lift the valve’s lever slightly and let it snap back. If water continues to leak, the valve may need to be replaced.

  • TPR valves are inexpensive and can be replaced at home with basic plumbing tools.


4. Inspect the Drain Valve

The drain valve at the bottom of the tank may occasionally leak:

  • Ensure it’s completely closed.

  • If it’s faulty, consider replacing the valve.


5. Look for Corrosion

Rust or corrosion on the pipes is a warning sign:

  • Surface rust can sometimes be treated with a rust inhibitor.

  • If the tank itself is corroded and leaking, it often indicates the water heater needs to be replaced.


Quick Fixes for Small Leaks

If the leak is minor and from a pipe joint, you can try:

  • Plumber’s Tape: Wrap Teflon tape around threaded pipe connections to stop drips.

  • Pipe Sealant: Apply a waterproof sealant for temporary fixes.

  • Tightening Loose Nuts: Many small leaks are caused by loose connections, which can be fixed with a wrench.

Pro Tip: Always monitor temporary fixes and plan for a permanent solution. Leaks left untreated can lead to bigger problems, such as mold or structural damage.


Preventing Water Heater Leaks

Prevention is better than repair. Here are a few practical tips to help reduce the risk of your water heater leaking:

  1. Regular Maintenance: Flush your water heater at least once a year to remove sediment buildup.

  2. Inspect Valves: Check TPR valves and drain valves periodically for leaks or wear.

  3. Check Pipes and Connections: Inspect for corrosion or looseness.

  4. Install a Leak Detector: Place a sensor near the base of your water heater to get early warnings of leaks.

  5. Temperature Control: Set the thermostat to a comfortable 120°F to reduce pressure and strain on the tank, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.


Extra Tips for North Arlington Homeowners

  • Monitor Water Pressure: High pressure can stress the tank and valves. Install a pressure-reducing valve if necessary.

  • Keep the area Clear: Make sure the area around your water heater is free of clutter so you can spot leaks early.

  • Know Your Warranty: Check if your water heater is still under warranty; some leaks may be covered.

  • Seasonal Checks: Inspect your water heater, especially before winter when heating demand rises.


Conclusion

A water heater leaking doesn’t have to cause panic. By understanding the source of the leak, following safety steps, and applying DIY troubleshooting methods, North Arlington homeowners can often manage small leaks themselves. Regular maintenance and preventive checks are key to avoiding major issues.

Remember, while some fixes are simple, never hesitate to call a professional if the leak is severe or persistent. Acting early can save you money, protect your home, and ensure you always have reliable hot water.


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