If you have a gas water heater leaking, there are so many things which could have possibly gone wrong. The leak is one of the easiest things to misdiagnose, yet repairing it should be fast. The water heater itself or the pipes could be the problem. But at times, the condensation originating from the adjacent valves could cause a puddle.
What Are The Other Possible Causes Of The Leak?
Take note of any abnormal leak from the furnace drains, poor plumbing works or discharge lines of the water softener. They all could give you a hint of the source of the leak. Wipe them to see if there is any subsequent leak.
If the above inspection yields no fruits, you will then need to move to the next step in gas water heater leaking determination and repair.
Use Paper Towels
Laying paper towels over the suspected areas with a leak problem will help diagnose the source. Simply leave the towels for around 48 hours and then come back to check. If they turn out dump, it is possible there is a leak; if they are dry, then the previous dampness may have been caused by anything else other than a leak.
Let’s assume you find that there is a leak. What is the first thing that you should do?
Turn Off Gas
No repair should be carried out whilst the gas is on. The gas shut-off valve should, however, be left on its own. Only the on/off switch should be operated.
Switch Off Water
This should be done at the shut-off valve for the cold water. If you think that you will come into contact with water, it is recommended that you turn off the water from the main shut-off valve where all the water is controlled from. One thing that you will achieve is that the leak will diminish considerably, allowing you to repair it faster.
Where Is The Location Of The Leak?
The next thing that you will need to do is to locate the leak. It could be in the inlet/outlet pipes or the T&P relief valve. Lastly, check the drain valve or at the bottom of the tank.
Repair Or To Replace?
This is a fundamental question that you will need to ask yourself. If the problem is not a serious one, then a simple repair can be carried out. On the other hand, extensive leaking should be followed by a replacement.
