What are the dangers of a water heater leak? Read on to find out!
Water heaters are one of those appliances that are often taken for granted, until the moment they stop functioning and start leaking. When water starts leaking out of the heater, it leads to several issues including property damage. This is why you must not ignore the maintenance and repair needs of your heater and call a reliable service to fix the leak right away. Moreover, you must address the immediate water damage caused to your property swiftly before it leads to secondary water damage.
Here are some potential dangers of water heater leaks:
Rusty Pipes Lead to Contaminated Water
If the pipes that are connected to your water heater are too rusty, then they might corrode to an extent that water starts leaking through them. This means that the water coming through those pipes is also exposed to the rust and is contaminated with various chemicals and bacteria. Exposure to such dirty and contaminated water can lead to several health issues.
Broken Heating Element
A broken or damaged heating element can cause water to leak from the heater. If this is the case, then make sure to shut the power and water off so that you can call a professional to drain the water out of the tank and replace the gasket. Do this before the situation gets out of hand and the water pressure causes irreparable damage.
Pressure Buildup Might Result in Explosion
In some instances, water leaking from the heater is a sign of water buildup so large that the water has forced its way through the pipe. Even though this rarely happens, but if the water buildup in your water heater is too much, then it can cause the heater tank to explode. This emergency situation can occur if the temperature-pressure relief valve is damaged or when the water temperature is set too high.
Structural Damage to your Property
One of the most common dangers of a leaking water heater is property damage. Water leaking from the heater will destroy the surrounding area. It might warp your floorboards and damage your walls and carpeting. If left unattended, the moisture will also cause mold and mildew to grow on the surfaces and spread throughout your home. This is why you must not let the leaking water pool near the heater and keep the area thoroughly dry.
If your water heater is continually leaking, then you must get it fixed before it causes irreparable damage to your property. However, if your home has already been affected by the leaking water, then it’s best to contact a reliable water damage restoration company to deal with it. Additionally, you should look for signs of mold growth and if you spot any mold growing in your home, then hire a mold remediation service right away.
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