Finding water leaking from your geyser is every homeowner’s nightmare. Whether it’s a burst tank, a faulty valve or a geyser overflow pipe leaking into your roof space, trapped water can lead to mould, electrical hazards if it reaches wiring, and even a ceiling collapse. Acting fast makes all the difference.
Step 1: Switch off The Electricity
Find the isolator switch for your geyser, usually near the geyser or at your main distribution board and switch it off. Electricity and a leaking tank in your roof space are a genuine hazard. Don’t skip this step, even if you’re in a hurry to deal with the water.
Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply
Find and close the cold-water isolation valve supplying the geyser or turn off your home’s main stopcock to prevent pressurised water from continuing to pour into the ceiling.
Step 3: Relieve System Pressure
Fully open all hot water taps in your bathroom and kitchen. This drains the remaining hot water from the pipes, relieves the pressure built up inside the failing geyser tank and slows the rate of the leak.
Step 4: Relieve a Sagging Ceiling Safely
Don’t press against a sagging or wet ceiling board, as it may burst without warning. If the ceiling is bulging from trapped water, place buckets underneath, then carefully use a screwdriver to make a small, controlled hole at the lowest point of the sag so the water can drain safely.
Step 5: Call an Emergency Plumber
A leaking geyser needs professional attention as soon as possible. Contact Plumbing It Fine on 060 464 7501 for immediate plumbing services. As a trusted Cape Town plumber, our team will locate the source of the leak and inspect your geyser and overflow pipe.
A leaking geyser can become a costly emergency within minutes, but quick action can protect your ceiling, wiring, and belongings.
