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What Causes Commercial Water Heaters to Leak?
What Causes Commercial Water Heaters to Leak?

What Causes Commercial Water Heaters to Leak?

Did your commercial water heater start leaking? This is frustrating for any business owner, but the good…

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Did your commercial water heater start leaking? This is frustrating for any business owner, but the good news is that most water heater leaks start small and can be easily repaired if detected on time. The solution may be as simple as tightening a loose connection or replacing a deteriorating drain valve.

What Causes Commercial Water Heaters to Leak?

However, a water heater leak can sometimes stem from a corroded hot water tank. If corrosion is at play, water heater replacement is often recommended. This guide by High Speed Plumbing covers the most common causes of commercial water heater leaks.

  • Loose Drain Valves

Located at the bottom of a water heater, a drain valve is used for draining water. If the drain valve is not fully closed or the seal is degraded, it can allow water to escape the tank. You can use a wrench to tighten a loose drain valve in a clockwise direction. However, if the valve has degraded, it will have to be replaced altogether. Let a nearby plumber in Arcadia, CA help you with replacing a failing drain valve.

  • High Water Pressure

Excessively high water pressure (over 150 PSI) doesn’t just put a strain on your water pipes; it can also lead to water leaks. The temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P) is designed to withstand a maximum pressure of 150 PSI. If the pressure exceeds this limit, the valve is more likely to leak, and you may end up with a burst tank. You don’t want to end up calling an emergency plumber after your hot water tank has ruptured.

It's advisable to install a pressure-reducing valve on the cold water inlet pipe leading to the commercial water heater. If you have a closed-loop plumbing system, consider installing an expansion tank to prevent pressure from building up. Our plumbers also recommend inspecting the T&P relief valve every six months.

  • Corrosion and Rust

One of the most common causes of commercial water heater leaks is internal corrosion. Over time, water minerals react with the steel tank, leading to rust. Most water heaters are equipped with an anode rod designed to attract corrosive elements and protect the tank lining. However, once the anode rod deteriorates and is not replaced, the tank itself begins to corrode. Eventually, this corrosion can create small holes that allow water to escape.

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In commercial settings, such as restaurants, hotels, and gyms, high usage accelerates this process, especially in areas with hard water. If you’re getting discolored hot water or the water has a metallic taste, you’re likely dealing with water heater corrosion. Call a local plumbing repair service to help you replace the heater.

  • Loose or Damaged Connections

Not all leaks originate from the tank itself. In many cases, water may be leaking from loose inlet or outlet connections, fittings, or valves. Vibrations from daily operation can loosen these components. Worn-out gaskets or faulty drain valves may also allow water to seep out.

Fortunately, leaks caused by loose connections are often easier and less expensive to fix compared to a cracked tank. Get in touch with a licensed plumbing repair service for a water heater inspection and have the problem fixed before it gets worse.

Contact High Speed Plumbing for Commercial Water Heater Service

If your commercial water heater is leaking or has run into a problem, High Speed Plumbing is here to help. Our licensed plumbers have the expertise and years of experience servicing all types of water heaters in restaurants, hotels, resorts, clinics, fitness centers, barber shops, and many more. Whether you need to replace a failing anode rod, tighten loose connections, or replace a corroded tank, we have the expertise to get the job right the first time. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!