Is Your Hot Water System Leaking? Here's What to Do

If you've just found out that your hot water system is leaking, you need to know that this isn't a problem you can ignore.

Even though it might just be a small leak right now, it can quickly turn into a major issue. Once you've noticed the leak, you should take action as soon as possible.

When you come across a leaking hot water system, just follow these steps to fix the issue before it becomes a bigger problem.

Step 1: Identify Your Hot Water System

Before calling up a plumbing specialist, you should identify what type of hot water heater you have.

Although our plumbers are equipped to repair all types of hot water heaters, if our team knows what type of system we're dealing with ahead of time, they'll be better prepared when our plumbers arrive.

Repairing a gas, electric, solar, or instant hot water system requires a different repair procedure.

We want to provide our customers with the best possible service, and providing us with this information will help us speed up your repairs.

Step 2: Locate the Source of The Leak

Before calling a plumber, locating where the hot water system is leaking from will help our team assess the problem with the system, but only if it's safe to do so.

It is important to note DO NOT TRY TO FIX THE LEAK YOURSELF.

Unless you are a trained plumber who is experienced with the specific system you're working on, you can end up further damaging the system, or injuring yourself.

Electric and gas hot water systems operate very differently. So, if the location of the leak isn't easily located on the exterior of the system, DON'T take apart the system and just let the trained plumber take care of it.

Step 3: Call Your Local Plumber

Call your local trusted plumber.

They should have all the appropriate licenses and training to take care of your type of hot water system.

When you call up the team at Jetset Plumbing, we'll provide you with advice on what immediate action you should take before the plumber arrives.

The advice will provide will depend on what type of hot water system you have and the severity and location of the leak.

Jetset Plumbing is the industry leader in repairing, servicing, and installing hot water systems.

Just call: 1800 443 996 and our plumbing specialists will be quickly dispatched to your home to fix your system. We offer a $0 call out fee and as our slogan states, One Call, Solves All.

Step 4: Follow the Advice of the Plumber

The best action for you to take will depend on what type of hot water system you have and the location of the leak.

So, let's go through some of the common problems that cause your hot water system to leak.

Leaking Pressure Relief Valve

It is not uncommon for the pressure relief valve to occasionally let a few drops of water escape, but it shouldn't be a constant drip.

And if water is streaming out, then you've got an immediate problem and you need to get that taken care of now.

Leaking Hot Water Tank

If the leak seems to be coming out of the top or bottom of the tank, then it's likely that one of the internal components of the tank has malfunctioned.

It's also possible that the structural integrity of the tank itself is compromised.

Loose Or Worn-Out Connections

The fittings and hoses of the system can get loose over time.

This can be caused by harsh weather, other environmental factors, or general wear and tear. If you notice the water running along the hose or the area around the connections being damp, it's likely the leak is coming from a connection. In this case, the plumber will be able to quickly make the repairs.

How To Stop A Hot Water System Leaking

Turn Off Your Water

A sure-fire way to stop your Hot Water System from leaking is to turn off the water main for your house.

It's likely you'll find your water main valve in your front yard near the street.

If you live in an apartment complex, it could be located on the side of the building or even in a cupboard.

Pro Tip: When you move into a new house you should locate where the water shut off valve is, in case of emergencies.

Turn Off the Power Source

An electric hot water system will typically have a dedicated switch on your switchboard, locate which one it is, and turn it off.

If you're unsure which one it is, it's best to leave it be, but if you need to turn off the power, you can turn off the safety switch and cut power to the whole house.

If it's a gas system, locate the gas connecting pipe and turn off the gas isolation valve.

Before making any changes to your gas, make sure you know the correct way to turn the valve.

Our plumbing and gas specialists will be able to find your water shut off valve and gas isolation valve if you're unable to find it, or unsure of how to turn it off. Our team will also be glad to show you where they are and how to turn them off if you ask 😊

When you find out your hot water system is leaking, give the team at Jetset Plumbing a call on 1800 443 996. Our complete hot water system repair services can take care of your leaking system, no problem.