Most homeowners tend to ignore a leaking hot water system because they think that it's a minor issue. However, an issue that may seem insignificant at the moment can lead to bigger problems in the future. For instance, the leaking water can damage the walls and floors and increase your power bills. Water heater leakage can also cause health concerns like asthma and allergy when mold and mildew sprout since the spores are toxic. Therefore, it's vital to repair leaking water heaters right away to avoid all these problems. Follow these steps the next time you realize that your water heater is leaking.

Identify the source of leakage

One of the primary mistakes homeowners make is to think that every puddle of water is an indication that the water heater is leaking. Condensation can form on pipes or other items that are next to the heater, and over time, you might realize that there are some drips or pools of water on the floor. Don't contact the repair contractor right away. You need to confirm if the heater is leaking.

Begin by turning off the television or radio so you can hear if the water is leaking from the heater. It's easy to hear leaks before damages occur. For instance, if you hear water dripping or rushing, be sure to follow the sound to check for leaks. Your eyes will show you the exact point of leakage if the heater is damaged. However, seeing the leak sometime may be challenging if the heater is wrapped using an insulated blanket, so be sure to know the common areas that leak so you can check. Also, don't forget to check the top and bottom components of the water heater for leaks.

Turn the power and water off

Once you confirm that the water heater is leaking, you should turn the power and water supply off. Electricity and water aren't a good combination as they could cause shock. Excess water on the floor could also cause you to trip and fall or lead to structural damage.

Contact a water heater contractor

The final step you should take is to contact a licensed plumber to conduct repairs. Don't be tempted to DIY this project as this could damage your leaking water heater further, causing you to spend more on repairs or buy another heater. Plumbing contractors are experienced in handling water heater issues, so the problem will be fixed correctly. Moreover, they have the right tools and supplies for the job. Their service also comes with a guarantee so you can contact them if anything happens right after the repairs are done.

To learn more, contact a plumber.