What Causes Your Water Heater To Run Constantly?

Have you been experiencing an unusual sound from some of your plumbing fixtures? The sound of constantly running water? Have you already checked all your plumbing systems and fixtures but still couldn't identify the cause of the sound? It is possible that the sound is because your hot water tank is running. If your water heater is constantly running, there is probably a problem. Here are a few potential problems that your water heater could be having.

Leakages
Leakages are the major reason why your water heater can run constantly. Hot water tank leaks can occur because of several defects in its system. A drain valve is responsible for flushing the water heater. A temperature-pressure relief valve maintains an ideal temperature as well as the pressure inside the tank. Damaged or old drain valve or TPR valve can also result in leaks from the tank.

Sediment Buildup
Over time, minerals, salts, and debris build up in the bottom of the water heater. If you haven’t drained your tank in a while, sediment buildup may cause your hot water tank to function inefficiently. The sediment deposits flow with the water and try to seep out of even the slightest gap available near the pipe connections. This way, the sediments corrode the system, thus resulting in leaks. 

Loose Connections
While installing or repairing water heaters, it is often seen that some fixtures and connections are not properly done. Pipe fittings and position of valves or tank are not tightly secured. Water flows easily through these loose connections and results in major leakages. That is when you hear a constant running sound from your water heater. Regular preventative maintenance of the connections may ward off water heater leaks and future repairs.

Aged Hot Water Tanks
The lifespan of most water heaters is about 10-20 years. So, various water heater defects, including running tanks are going to occur sooner or later in every residential or commercial setting. The proper functioning systems of the hot water tanks wear out with time and become less efficient. Therefore, regular inspection and preventative maintenance are essential for proper functioning of hot water tanks. Old pipes, fixtures, connections, insulation, interior parts, etc. become inefficient for the proper functioning of the tanks. And inefficient functioning means the chances of plumbing defects to occur are high.

There is no doubt that running water heaters can cause extensive damage to your home and waste gallons of water. Even a slow yet constantly running hot water tank can cause major water damage over time, if left untreated. Other serious problems that can take place include - decaying floor or walls, and/or damage to the water heater, plumbing fixtures, faucets, pipes, etc. Hence, keeping a regular check on the proper functioning of water heaters is crucial.
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But, if you are already having a bad time with constantly running water heaters, it’s time you seek help from our Edmonton water heater installers. Our team of professional water heater technicians will be there instantly to identify and diagnose the tank issues.