It is common for water to sometimes leak from the temperature and pressure release valve (TPR valve) found in storage hot water systems because it is built to do so when necessary. A continuous flow of water from the TPR may indicate that the valve needs to be replaced or that it is clogged with silt.
Water from the hot water system that leaks may be quite hot. Water shouldn’t frequently drop or flow out of the hot water system, with the exception of the TPR valve.
Is there a flood of water?
If the hot water system has a water entry valve, shut it off. If not, turn off the main water faucet, particularly if the unit is inside or in a location where water might cause damage. Though the water has been turned off, keep in mind that if you have a storage hot water system, there is still a tank full of water that has to be released (depending on where the leak is). If it’s feasible, spread out some towels or put a bucket under the water flow. The water can still be hot, so use caution.
Immediately cut off the electricity to the hot water system:
For information on how to shut off a solar and heat pump hot water system, see the system handbook at the circuit breaker in the switchboard for an electric water heater or at the gas valve next to the unit for gas hot water systems.
Electric, solar, or heat pump hot water systems need to be handled with considerable attention since electricity and water might be fatally incompatible. If you are uncertain or anxious, put it off and get professional assistance from an emergency plumber.
Drip slowly
Your plumber should check even a little leak since it can be a warning of more serious issues to come. As soon as you see a drop or two coming from somewhere other than the pressure release valve, schedule a hot water repair.
Potential sources of a leak:
Tank that has deteriorated
Over time, the storage tank may corrode, often as a result of silt buildup within the tank. A sacrificial anode, which is intended to corrode instead of the tank, protects the majority of tanks.
The sacrificial anode should ideally corrode while the tank is still intact, however it must be regularly inspected and replaced as necessary. Occasionally, this easy procedure is neglected, causing the tank to rust or corrode. To avoid this, make sure your plumber inspects the tank and anode often (every few years).
Hint: If the water in your home has a rusty or unpleasant odour, it may be time to replace your hot water tank. Ask your plumber to look into any changes in the colour or smell of your water.
Pipes or fixture damage
Your hot water system’s pipes or fittings may corrode over time through contact with other metals or exposure to the environment. The good news is that a pipe or fitting leak is often fixable.
Saline air
Any metal, including your hot water system, will ultimately corrode if you live close to the ocean. Regular maintenance may assist in keeping rust issues under control.
In most cases, a broken storage tank is not worth fixing or even replacing; it is often more cost-effective to install a new system instead.
This is an excellent chance to switch to a more energy-efficient model and save your electricity costs.
In the last two decades, hot water systems have advanced significantly; the majority of companies now provide 5+ star energy or very energy efficient solutions. Systems that use solar hot water or heat pumps are excellent options since they use cost-free, renewable energy sources.
For guidance on the finest hot water heater for your requirements, consult your plumber.If you have an emergency plumbing issue in Hornsby, you can look for an experienced, licensed emergency plumber to assist you. They can help you identify the cause of the problem and provide you with the best solution to fix it.
