If you were to fix all the leaky pipes and faucets in America, you’d save enough water every year to support another New York. Even just fixing the leaks in your New Jersey home is enough to make a noticeable impact on your water bill. If there’s a leaking water heater in your home, troubleshoot it using these tips:

  • Take a look at the overall health of your heater. If your unit is severely rusted, or the drain valve itself is leaking, you may want to call a professional. It might be time to replace your heater or valve.
  • If your tank looks to be in good condition, turn the water heater off or to the “pilot” position. Then, wait for a couple of hours until the water in the tank cools down. This will protect you from accidental scalding.
  • Place a shallow pan under your tank’s discharge pipe and flip the pressure-release lever on the pipe. After the pressure has been released, flip the lever again and look for leaks around that area. If you see one, have your plumber install a new pressure-release valve.
  • Unscrew the dripping fitting and apply the plumber’s tape to the threads where the fitting was attached. Then, screw the fitting back on over the tape and tighten it for a watertight seal.
  • If your heater is still dripping, contact your local plumbing professional. If the dripping stops, close the pressure release valve and turn the temperature on your tank back up.

If you have a leaking water heater in your home, or if you want to learn more about troubleshooting and maintenance, contact Pipe Works Services today.

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