When it comes to leaking water heaters, this is not an uncommon problem. In fact, it is sometimes possible to diagnose and fix the issue without first using the water.
Generally speaking, you can take a shower with a leaking water heater. That said, this depends on the size of the leak.
Water heaters usually leak from the T&P valve, drain valve, or delivery pipes which are designed to let a small amount of water out.
If the leak is small, then taking a shower before resolving the issue can be safe.
On the other hand, if the leak is coming from any other location or creating a big pool of water, then you may want to consult a plumber before using the water.
With this in mind, we explore everything you need to know about showering with a leaking water heater in this guide.
Let’s get started.
Why Do Water Heaters Leak?
There are various reasons why your water heater may be leaking. Therefore, diagnosing the problem usually requires some close-up inspection.
The drain valve is a common cause for a leaking water heater, however, there are various other reasons that could incite a leaking water heater, these include:
Leaking Fittings
Where the water lines meet the water heater is where you’ll find the fittings. This is another area where leaks are most prone.
Generally, to solve the problem, all you have to do is tighten the fittings.
However, if you have brass compression fittings, then you’ll want to be careful not to overtighten them.
When it comes to brass compression fittings, you should always tighten them by hand and then further at a quarter turn.
Temperature And Pressure Valve Issues
Leakages can also come from Temperature and Pressure (T&P) Valve issues, too.
However, this is usually an indication of a more serious problem. Therefore, if you notice a leak here, you’ll want to consult a professional plumber.
Water Supply Line Problem
Supply lines are installed in water heaters to ensure a smooth flow of water into the tank.
Therefore, here is the most common culprit to a leak where it can travel down to the tank itself or the wiring.
If you notice this happening, it can seem as if there is an issue with the tank or another part of the water heater.
If your supply lines are faulty then the only solution is to replace them. In such instances, you’ll want to consult a professional to help you do so.
Rusting Tank
If you can’t find an issue with any of these components listed above, then it is likely that the water tank is leaking.
This is generally the cause of a hole in the tank which can be the result of a manufacturing defect or rust.
Showering With A Leaking Water Heater Risks
While it is generally considered safe to shower with a leaking water heater, there are a few dangers you should be made aware of.
For instance, these include explosion, scalding, and flooding risks. Below, we explore each risk in further detail.
Explosion Risk
If the problem lies in the T&P valve – which is designed to regulate the water temperature and pressures – then there is a risk of increased pressure.
This can lead to some of the components breaking and creating a leak.
While it is uncommon, this excess pressure may even cause the water heater to explode.
Thus, this will undeniably cause damage to your property.
In extreme cases, this can further escalate if a gas water heater catches on fire.
Scalding Risk
A leak in your water heater can be the result of a range of different reasons, including a damaged temperature and pressure valve to a loose fitting.
However, broken components can have the ability to affect the heater’s temperature detector or thermostat – causing the water to overheat.
If your shower has a hot water intake, then the risk of scalding increases tremendously.
Flooding Risk
One of the most serious concerns that come with a leaking water heater is flooding – using the shower may enhance this risk.
Since the volume of water changes while you’re showering, a minor problem could transform into a much bigger problem.
In fact, a leak can damage your house’s pricey floor and even cause structural damage depending on the type of heater and its placement.
Can You Shower With A Leaking Water Heater?
In most instances, you can temporarily shower while there is a leak in the water heater.
Generally, these leaks are minor and won’t affect your water usage immediately.
However, you’ll want to make sure that you identify where the problem is coming from and take the necessary steps to get it resolved.
The first step is to determine where the leak is coming from.
Here, you may have to do some investigating to determine that the leak is, in fact, from your water heater.
For instance, there are other sources of water in your home where a leak could take place, for instance:
Water softener discharge lines
Furnace drain lines
Different plumbing configurations
Condensation
Before you turn off your water, it is usually advised to dry the area affected by the leak and then place some newspaper or paper towels on the area to see where the saturation is coming from after a few days – this is an effective way to determine where your heater is leaking.
Final Thoughts
When you notice any sort of leak, this is never a good sign… especially when it is coming from your water heater.
However, if you’re in a rush to shower – for whatever reason –, you may not be able to resolve it instantly.
Hi everyone! My name is Jason, and I am the founder of HeaterWise.com. Having run my own business as a Heating Engineer for 21 years, I have picked up a few things along the way.
I wanted to create Heater Wise as a place where anyone could come, from far and wide, to find the information that they need.
I hope you will join us here at Heater Wise, to get started on your own journey, to expand your knowledge, and make the best heating choices for you and your family.
