Finding a puddle of water around your tankless water heater can undoubtedly cause alarm. A tankless water heater leaking is not only an inconvenience, but also a potential source of water damage to your property.
As a long-time plumbing company servicing the Argyle area, we’ve seen our fair share of tankless water heater leaks. We share practical tips and steps you can take to address this problem efficiently in this blog.
Before we get into the details of leaks, it helps first to understand what tankless water heaters are and why they leak.
What Is a Tankless Water Heater and What Causes It to Leak?
Tankless water heaters are also called on-demand water heaters. And unlike traditional water heaters, they don’t store and heat water in a large tank. Instead, they heat water directly as it passes through the unit, allowing you to enjoy hot water when you need it without waiting for a tank to heat up.
On-demand water heaters help lower utility bills. Without a bulky tank, these units also occupy less room and are perfect for smaller homes or apartments. Finally, tankless water heaters generally have longer lifespans than tank-based counterparts.
While they present many benefits, they may also develop issues over time. Specifically, tankless water heaters can leak due to several reasons:
- Hard Water – Water containing high mineral content can result in deposits that lead to corrosion and, ultimately, leaks in your heating system.
- High Water Pressure – When the pressure exceeds the tank’s capacity, it can strain valves and joints, forcing water to escape through any weak points.
- Incorrect Installation – If your unit wasn’t installed correctly or the connections have loosed over time, water might seep through.
- Worn-out Components – Regular wear and tear on valves, gaskets, and other components can compromise the water heater’s integrity, allowing water to leak out.
Practical Steps for Dealing With a Tankless Water Heater Leak
Tankless hot water heater leaking can create a stressful situation within seconds. Still, these straightforward and actionable tips can help you address the problem and get things back under control as soon as possible.
1. Turn Off the Power and Stop the Leak
The safety of your household should be the top priority. Before doing anything else, ensure the power source to your tankless water heater is turned off. For electric heaters, switch off the broker; you’ll need to turn off the gas valve if you own a gas-powered unit. This prevents any potential hazards and allows you to investigate the issue safely.
Next, locate the main water valve and shut it off to prevent more water from feeding the leak. This will help minimize any further damage while you inspect your unit.
2. Identify the Source of the Leak
There are a few common places to check if you’re experiencing a tankless water heater leak. These include the valves, the heat exchanger, and the plumbing connections. Look for signs of wear or damage to these parts, as they are the common culprits for leaks.
If you discover your tankless water heater leaking from the bottom, it’s likely due to a condensation leak, a damaged heat exchanger, or an issue with the internal valves. Each of these scenarios requires a different approach for repair, so it’s best to consult a certified plumber in Argyle.
3. Perform DIY Troubleshooting
Sometimes, a leak may simply be due to a loose connection. Use a wrench to carefully tighten any fittings, but be cautious not to over-tighten, as this could cause further damage.
Worn-out seals or gaskets can also cause a tankless hot water heater to leak. If you’re comfortable with minor repairs, these can be inspected and replaced. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for a safe and effective repair.
4. Call the Professionals
Still, with any leak, the best course of action is to call in professional plumbers specializing in tankless water heaters. If you’re also uncertain about the source of the leak or how to fix it, it’s best to call a professional plumber instead of tackling the problem yourself. Improper handling of tankless water heaters can lead to warranty voids or further issues down the line.
A professional plumber in Argyle will assess the leak using modern diagnostic tools and practices to pinpoint the source. Best of all, they can address the issue, whether it involves replacing a damaged heat exchanger, fixing internal valves, or dealing with more complex problems.
Bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Argyle Is Here To Help You Combat Leaks in Your Tankless Water Heater
Dealing with a tankless water heater leak can be problematic, but with the right approach, you can limit the damage and restore functionality to your appliance. Not all leaks are major, but they require prompt attention so they don’t become bigger issues.
If you’re ever in doubt about handling this problem, don’t delay contacting your friendly plumbers at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Argyle for a professional and efficient repair. Leaving a small leak unaddressed can lead to complications down the line, so taking prompt action protects your home and lets you enjoy the benefits of your tankless water heater for years to come.
Don’t let a leak interrupt your daily routine. Call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Argyle at 940-532-5938 and have your home comfortable again in no time.
