Gas Water Heater Leaking From Top

If you have a gas hot water heater leaking from the top one possibility is related to rain.

Gas water heater leaking from top.

A water heater leaking from the top is preferable to one from the bottom. However if not fixed promptly these types of leaks can lead to serious and costly damage as water travels down the exterior of your water heater. Once you identify that a leak is still currently happening immediately turn off the power source to avoid any electrical issues. On the other hand water runs downhill so failure to fix the leak can lead to more serious problems including electrical shorts additional damage to the water heater and the possibility of water damage such as ruined carpeting or drywall.

Then observe where the water starts to come from. Have a professional inspect your tank to determine the issue. Rainwater can be blown in from outside. If your hot water heater is designed like this then this could be a reason your water heater is leaking at the top.

Frequently when a water heater leaks from the top it s a fixable problem. However some models have these valves located on the very top of the machine. If you have a gas water heater turn off the gas supply. Under the right conditions rain drops can enter and come down the vent.

If there is water leaking from the piping attached to the t p relief valve and also from the open end of the pipe there s most likely too much pressure in the water heater or the water is too hot. This can happen especially during a storm with high winds. That metal vent on top of your gas water heater extends through your house to your roof. So let s look at some of the most common reasons your water heater is leaking at the top.

It s also a less expensive problem. Many water heater tanks have their temperature and pressure relieve valve positioned on the side of the tank. This is a common area where water leaks and you ll generally see the leak at the point where the fittings meet the water heater. Using paper towels wipe down the wet areas on the top of your water heater so it s dry.