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Can a Leaking Water Heater be Repaired?

leaking water heater can typically be repaired if the reason for the leak is a broken or failing part and not the unit itself being structurally compromised. If the hot water tank itself is cracked, it will likely need to be replaced. If you suspect that your hot water tank is cracked, call an emergency plumber immediately. A cracked water heater can be a very dangerous situation if hot water begins leaking or spraying out. Additionally, a broken water heater can cause pressure to build up, potentially allowing it to explode.

One of the most common reasons for a leaking water heater is a broken drain valve on the water tank. You can either replace the valve on a water heater yourself or call a local plumber to do it for you. A drain valve is a fairly inexpensive part. However, improperly installing a replacement hot water heater valve can result in continued leaking and possibly even flooding in your home. For that reason, many homeowners choose to have a licensed plumber do the job instead.

If your hot water heater regularly experiences issues like leaking or the pilot light failing to light, it may make more sense to get a new hot water heater than it does to continue to pay for water heater repair work. Depending on the nature of your issues, it may only take a couple of visits from a local plumbing company to equal the cost of having a full hot water heater replacement when you consider the cost of parts and labor. A traditional water heater usually costs less than $1,000 to have a experienced plumber install. A plumbing company will also charge a fee to dispose of your old water heater, which will vary based on local regulations.

Additional resources:
Water Heater Valve Replacement
Replace a Thermocouple on a Water Heater
Cost of Replacing a Home Water Heater
Leaking Water Tank
Why Is My Hot Water Cold?
Who Does Water Heater Repair Near Me?
Will a Handyman Install a Water Heater?
Can I put in my own Water Heater?