Loft Water Tank Leaking? Here’s What You Need To Know

Leak From Water Tank In Loft?

If you’ve noticed a water tank leak in your loft or attic, you’re not alone. Many homeowners experience issues with their cold water tanks, hot water tanks, and water storage tanks. Whether it’s a dripping ceiling, a leaking ceiling, or even a flooded attic, water leaks can cause significant damage if left unaddressed. In this blog, we’ll explain what causes water tank leaks, what you can do to help prevent them, and how we can provide expert services to fix the problem.

What Causes Water Leaks from Water Tanks?

Water tanks, whether cold or hot, are essential for your home’s plumbing system. They store and provide water for various purposes, including heating and cooling, and supply water to taps, toilets, and appliances. When a water tank starts leaking, it’s typically due to one of the following reasons:

1. Overflowing Water Tank

An overflowing water tank can be a common issue, especially with cold water tanks or F&E tanks. This typically happens when the tank is overfilled, and the excess water leaks out through the overflow pipe. It can be caused by a faulty float valve that doesn’t shut off the water when it reaches the required level.

2. Water Tank Dripping

Sometimes, you may notice a drip from the ceiling below the tank. This could be caused by the tank’s water inlet or outlet pipe becoming loose, or it could be from a crack in the tank itself. Water tank dripping is often a sign of a slow leak that, if left unchecked, could worsen over time.

3. Leaking Cold Water Tank

Cold water tanks are often located in lofts and attics, which makes them more prone to temperature fluctuations. If the tank is improperly insulated, the water inside could freeze during cold weather, leading to cracks or leaks once it thaws. A leaking cold water tank can also occur if the tank is old or has sustained damage over time.

4. Hot Water Tank Leaking

If you notice your hot water heater tank leaking, it’s a more serious issue. Hot water tanks have higher pressure, and any fault in the tank, valve, or pipes could lead to leaks. It’s also possible for the tank to corrode over time, leading to slow leaks or even large bursts of water.

5. Leaks from Pipes

A leaking water tank can also result from faulty or worn-out pipes. If the pipes that connect to the tank are damaged or improperly sealed, it can cause water to leak from the tank, dripping down into your ceiling or floor below.

6. Leaking Attic

In many homes, water tanks are placed in the attic or loft area. When water starts leaking from a tank in the loft, it may not be immediately noticeable, especially if the water drips down slowly over time. This slow drip can lead to significant water damage, affecting the ceiling, floor and even the structural integrity of your home.

Signs of Water Leaking from Your Tank

How do you know if you have a water tank leak? Here are some signs to look out for:

Dripping or Leaking Ceiling

If you notice water spots or a dripping ceiling under your tank, it’s a clear sign that your water tank is leaking.

Constantly Running Overflow Pipe

If you hear the sound of water constantly running, it could be an indication that your cold water tank is leaking, or the overflow pipe is malfunctioning.

Visible Water Stains

If you spot water stains on the walls, ceiling, or around the tank, it could be from a leaking tank.

Wet or Damp Loft/Attic

A wet or damp attic is a clear indication that water is leaking from your water tank or pipes in the loft.

What You Can Do to Help Prevent

Leak From Water Tank

If you’re experiencing a leak from your water tank, here are a few steps you can take to minimise the damage:

cold water tank constantly running

Identify the Source of the Leak

leak from water tank

Before you start any repairs, it’s crucial to identify where the leak is coming from. A leaking water tank can result from various sources. Here’s how to pinpoint the issue:

Water Tank Dripping from the Ceiling: If you notice dripping water or water stains on your ceiling, this could be a sign that your water tank in the loft or attic is leaking.
Cold Water Tank Leak: A leaking cold water tank is often caused by cracks, a faulty float valve, or an issue with the overflow pipe.
Hot Water Tank Leaking: If it’s your hot water tank leaking, it’s likely due to faulty pipes, a corroded tank, or a broken temperature relief valve.
Overflowing Water Tank: If water is continuously running from the overflow pipe, the issue could be with the float valve or a malfunctioning pipe.

cold water tank leak

Turn Off the Water Supply

leaking attic

Once you’ve identified where the leak from the water tank is coming from, the next step is to turn off the water supply. This prevents any more water from flowing into the water storage tank and making the situation worse.

Locate the shut-off valve near the tank (it might be near the cold water tank or the main supply line).
Turn the valve to stop the water flow to the tank.

hot water heater tank leaking

Empty the Tank

tank in loft

Before you begin fixing the leak, you’ll want to empty the tank. This makes repairs safer and easier. Here’s how to do it:

Find the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
Attach a hose to the valve and direct it to a drain or outside.
Open the valve and allow the water to drain completely from the tank.

This is especially important for hot water tank leaks to avoid burns from hot water.

hot water tank leaking

Repair the Leak

tank in attic

Now that the tank is empty and the water supply is off, you can start the repairs. Here’s what to do depending on the type of water tank leak:

Cold water tank leak: If you see cracks, use a waterproof sealant or epoxy to seal the leak temporarily. If the tank is severely damaged, it might need to be replaced. You might also need to replace the float valve if it’s not functioning properly.
Hot water tank leak: If the hot water tank is leaking from the temperature relief valve, it may need replacing. For corroded tanks, replacement is usually the best option.
Overflow pipe: If the overflow pipe is leaking, check for blockages and clear them. Also, check the float valve and replace it if necessary to prevent overflows.

hot water tank overflow leaking

Test the Tank and Monitor

water tank dripping

After making the repairs, it’s time to check that everything is working correctly:

Turn the water supply back on and carefully check around the tank for any signs of leaks.
If everything looks good, let the tank refill and monitor it over the next few days to make sure the leak is fully fixed.

If you’re still noticing water tank leaking after your repairs, it may be time to consider a water tank replacement or contact a professional for assistance.

Get Professional Help

Water Tank Repair

At Plumbing Immediately, we specialise in water tank repair and replacement services. If you’re dealing with a leaking cold or hot water tank, our team is here to help. Here’s how we can assist:

1. Water Tank Repair

If you’re experiencing a leak from your water tank, we offer prompt and efficient repair services. Our experienced technicians can assess the damage, identify the cause of the leak, and carry out the necessary repairs. Whether it’s a small leak or a major issue, we have the skills to restore your water tank to full functionality.

2. Water Tank Replacement

If your water tank is beyond repair, we can provide water tank replacement services. Whether you have a hot water tank or cold water tank in your attic or loft, we’ll replace it with a new, high-quality model that meets your needs. We also offer tank installation services to ensure your new tank is set up correctly and safely.

3. F&E Tank Repair

An F&E tank, or feed and expansion tank, is an essential part of your home’s plumbing system. If your F&E tank is leaking or not functioning properly, we can provide expert F&E tank repair services to get it back in working order.

4. Emergency Services

Leaking water tanks can cause serious damage, especially if the leak is in your attic or loft. If you need urgent assistance, our emergency water tank repair services are available to handle leaks promptly and prevent further damage.

5. Water Tank Cleaning and Disinfection

Over time, water tanks can accumulate sediment, bacteria and other contaminants. We offer water tank cleaning and disinfection services to ensure your tank is free from harmful substances and functioning optimally.

6. Regular Maintenance

To prevent future leaks and ensure your tank continues to function properly, we recommend regular maintenance services. This includes checking for signs of wear and tear, cleaning the tank, and ensuring all valves and pipes are in good condition.

Need Help with a Leaking Water Tank?

If you're dealing with a leaking water tank in your loft or attic, don’t wait for the problem to get worse! Our team of professionals is here to provide fast and reliable water tank repair services. Whether it's a cold water tank leak, hot water tank leak, or an overflowing water tank, we've got you covered.

Don’t let a leaking water tank disrupt your home – let the experts handle it!

What to Keep in Mind When Dealing with a Leaking Water Tank

If you’ve noticed that your water tank is leaking, here are some things to keep in mind:

Time is of the essence: The longer you leave a leaking water tank, the more likely it is to cause damage to your home, including wet insulation, water stains, and potential mold growth.
Professional repair is key: Water tank repair can be tricky, especially when dealing with leaks in hard-to-reach areas like the loft or attic. It’s best to contact a professional to handle the repairs.
Don’t ignore the signs: A leaking water tank can be a sign of a larger issue with your plumbing system. If you notice signs of leaks, get them addressed as soon as possible to avoid more extensive damage.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve noticed water leaking from your water tank, don’t delay in getting it fixed. Whether it’s a leaking cold water tank, a hot water tank leak, or a water tank in the loft leaking, we’re here to help with water tank repair, replacement and maintenance services. Contact us today to schedule your water tank repair service and ensure your home remains safe and dry.

Still Struggling with a Leaking Water Tank? We're Here to Help!

If you’re still dealing with a leaking water tank or just don’t want to risk further damage, our team of experts is just a phone call away. We specialise in water tank repairs, including cold water tank leaks, hot water tank leaks, and everything in between.