A leaking hot water tank is not something anyone wants to experience. After all, it can be a frustrating and probably costly problem to fix. However, it's important to know what steps to take if your hot water tank does start to leak. So, what should you do in this situation?
Turn the Water off
The first thing you should do before taking any other action is to turn off the water supply. Locate the valve that controls the water supply to your tank and shut it off. This will prevent any more water from entering the tank and leaking out.
Drain the Tank
After turning off the water supply, you need to drain the hot water tank. Place a bucket or container under the drain valve and open it. The water will start to empty out of the tank. Keep an eye on the container and empty it when it's full. Once the tank is drained, you can continue to the next step.
Call a Professional Plumber
It's important to bring in a qualified, professional plumber to repair the leak. Trying to fix the problem yourself can make the situation worse and cause more damage. A professional plumber has the knowledge and expertise to identify the cause of the leak and fix it correctly. It pays to have the number of an emergency plumber on hand, just in case a situation like this should arise.
Assess the Damage
After the plumber has fixed the leak, you need to assess the damage. Look for any signs of water damage, such as mould or discolouration, and address them as soon as possible. Also, if the damage to the tank itself is too severe, you may need to replace it.
Try to Prevent Any Future Leaks
Regular maintenance is important if you want to avoid this type of incident in the future. This includes flushing the tank out periodically to remove any sediment buildup and ensuring that the temperature and pressure are correct. You can also install a leak detection device, which can alert you if there are any leaks in the tank.
What to Do Now
A leaking hot water tank is a frustrating and potentially costly problem, but knowing what to do can help minimise damage and ensure a quick repair. With regular maintenance, you can help keep your hot water tank in good condition and avoid any unexpected leaks in the future. But if you are unfortunate to suffer from this type of occurrence, always bring in a professional plumber as soon as possible.
Reach out to a local emergency plumber for more info.
