Depending on how big the leak is, the insulation may be soaked.Īny leak that is coming from the top seam is likely due to a leak at one of the threaded fittings that pass through the outer cover to the inner tank. The outer cover houses the insulation around the tank. The outer shell doesn’t contain any water. If you see water seeping out around the top seam, there is likely a leak at the cold water inlet, hot water outlet, anode rod, or a top-mounted T&P valve. Leak from the Top Seam on the Water Heater Tank This is when you’ll see the water leaking from the top. The water forms bubbles and starts to creep up the rod. If the corrosive elements in the tank eat at an anode rod long enough, the corrosion can deteriorate the threading connection past the insulation. Usually, a faulty anode rod is not supposed to lead to a water leak. In older models, you’ll find the anode rod at the top of the tank between the cold inlet valve and the hot water supply outlet pipe. If you have an old model tank and it’s leaking from the top, you might have an issue with a loose anode rod screw. You can usually replace the TPR valve provided the threading on the connection is in good shape and can make a tight seal. Over time, the connection can corrode and leak from the side or from the top of the water heater. T&P valves can also leak around the threaded fittings. Too much pressure can cause the valve to discharge, which is normal. Due to constant pressure and temperature regulating activity, the T&P valve picks up reasonable wear and tear. Some heaters have a top-mounted T&P valve, while others have a side-mounted T&P valve. Leaky T&P Relief ValveĪ T&P valve is a crucial feature that manages pressure in a heater so it doesn’t explode. Periodically check how tight the pipe fittings are. Loose pipe fittings mean the pressure build-up will drive water up a weak point to release. Water heaters have a lot of pressure on them. Loose pipe fittings are another key checking point any time you have a water leak from the top. In this scenario, replacing the entire assembly is best. For example, Bradford White water heaters have the anode rod connected to the hot water outlet. A repair at the hot water outlet can be tricky in some models. Much like the cold water inlet, water can often leak from the hot water outlet. In most cases, this area leaks water from the threaded connection if it’s worn out or loose. Therefore, a loose cold water inlet valve is one of the first suspects you need to look at if you find your heater leaking from the top. The Cold Water InletĪll the water coming into the water heater comes through the cold water inlet. While not unheard of, it is unusual for a water heater to leak around the top seam.Ī leak at the top of the water heater might be because of 6 things: 1. ![]() However, the first step is to find out the source of the leak. See, you can quickly diagnose a top leak. If you look at a cost-risk angle, a water heater leaking from the top is possibly the best-case scenario. Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Why is My Water Heater Leaking from the Top? () What Causes a Water Heater to Leak From the Top? ![]() If caught in time, a top leak can be repaired with minimal water damage. A leak on the top of a water heater is usually repairable without replacing the water heater.Ī leak at the bottom of the water heater can cause significant water damage. When you notice your water heater leaking from the top, immediately turn off the system’s water supply to prevent further damage.
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