5 Common Reasons Your Water Tank Is Leaking

If you spot a leak coming from your tank water heater, or a hot water expansion tank leaking, here are five things to check to determine the severity of the problem. Before you grab a wrench, turn off the water supply and shut-off valve, then disconnect power to the electric water heater or gas water heater. A quick safety check prevents electrical or gas hazards during inspection.

1. If the leak is located at the bottom of the tank, the temperature-pressure relief valve might need to be replaced, or you might simply need to adjust the pressure. A loose drain valve can also cause leaks located at the bottom of the tank. Check to ensure the drain valve is tightly closed. Excessive high water pressure or poor water quality can also stress the storage tank, leading to leaks near the base.
2. If you have a hot water expansion tank leaking, there are a couple of potential problems at play. If the leak is located on the expansion tank itself, you will need to call in a professional plumber to replace the tank. If the leak is coming from the pipe or pipe fitting at the top of the tank, you will likely only need to tighten the fitting with a wrench.  If you notice rust or discoloration on the outside or inside of the tank, that corrosion may indicate a malfunctioning or aging expansion tank that needs replacement under its warranty.
3. If the leak is located at the top of the tank, one possible place to check is the cold water inlet valve. If the valve is loose, simply tightening it with a wrench should fix the problem. If the valve is broken, you will need to replace it. This should be performed by a licensed professional. During regular inspections, make sure fittings stay tight and free of corrosion to avoid recurring leaks.
4. Another area in question for leaks at the top of the tank is the anode rod. This rod is typically located at the top of the water heater toward the front of the unit. The anode is what plumbers often refer to as a “sacrificial component.” In other words, it is designed to corrode. Therefore, it will need to be replaced every three years, on average. A neglected anode can accelerate corrosion inside the tank, reducing the efficiency of the heating element and shortening the unit’s lifespan. Scheduling regular maintenance helps prevent this.

A leak in the tank itself. A leaking expansion tank corroding from the inside out can happen for various reasons: the water pressure inside the tank is too high, there is extreme sediment buildup, or the anode rod is worn out. When dealing with a leak in the water tank, we recommend replacing the unit as soon as possible to avoid a more severe leak or a bursting tank. Ignoring a compromised tank can flood nearby faucets and walls, causing extensive water damage and costly home improvement repairs.