5 causes for a geyser leak and how to solve it

A geyser leak or water heater leak can be one of the biggest safety hazards. The causes of geyser leaks can range from usual wear and tear, faulty components, or improper installation. This is something I have personally faced at home and the common cause has either been a loose pipe connection, corrosion, or a faulty valve.

Before we get to the top causes of a geyser leak in detail, it is important to take necessary precautions before inspecting or fixing a geyser leak. You must call a professional in case you are unable to fix it or if the problem is too severe to fix. Here are the top causes for a geyser leak and how to solve it.

Geyser leak: Top causes and solutions for water heater leak

The most common cause of geyser leak is loose or worn-out pipe connection but faulty valves or rust can also cause water leakage. Here are the top causes and the solutions to fix them.

Loose or worn-out pipe connections

This has been the primary cause of geyser leak for me over the past few years and is often the first thing you need to check. Over time, pipes and fittings loosen due to thermal expansion and contraction, leading to leaks. You can fix this by inspecting the connections for loose or corroded fittings. Once you find a loose connection, use a pipe wrench to tighten it. If the pipes are damaged, replace them with new ones.

Rust and corrosion in the tank

Water heaters also tend to leak when the anode inside them wears out. The primary role of the anode rod is to prevent rusting but when the rod wears out, the tank starts to rust from the inside, leading to leaks. Look for rust-coloured water from the geyser and then replace the anode rod. You may need to do this once every 5 years.

Faulty valves

If your geyser is leaking there is a good chance that the temperature and pressure valves are faulty. These faulty valves release excess pressure from the geyser and you can fix this by first checking if the water temperature is too high. If the leak persists, replace the T&P valve with a new one.

High water pressure

One of the causes of stress on a geyser’s components is high water pressure. It immediately causes leaks and you can fix it by checking the pressure relief valve and ensuring that it’s frequently releasing water. You can also install a pressure-reducing valve to keep the pressure below 60 PSI for ideal operation.

ALSO READ: Geyser not working: Common electric water heater problems and their solutions

Worn-out geyser tank

Old water heaters can develop cracks in the tank, leading to continuous leakage. The only solution to this problem is replacing the geyser. You can consider a stainless steel or glass-lined geyser for improved durability.

A geyser leak should not be disregarded or overlooked since it can cause water damage and energy loss. By identifying the cause early and applying the right fix, you can avoid costly repairs and extend your geyser’s life. If the problem persists then call a professional to take a look and solve it.t