How to Fix a Leaking Geyser

A leaking geyser is rarely a reason to panic, but it does need attention quickly — even a slow drip can mean hundreds of litres of wasted water and, eventually, water damage to the surrounding ceiling or wall.

Where the leak is coming from matters

Before anything gets “fixed,” the leak needs to be traced to its actual source:

• The pressure relief valve — a slow drip here is often normal and just needs the valve checked or replaced, not the whole tank.
• The tank itself — rust or a crack in the tank means the geyser needs replacing, not repairing. Once a tank is compromised, it won’t seal again.
• Pipe connections — a loose or corroded fitting where pipes join the geyser is usually a straightforward repair.
• The thermostat or element housing — a worn seal here can leak and is a relatively quick fix.

What to do right now

If you notice a leak, switch off the geyser’s power supply and, if it’s safe to do so, close the inlet valve to stop water flowing in. This limits damage while you arrange a repair. Don’t attempt to open the tank yourself — geysers hold pressurised, often very hot water.

Repair or replace?

A qualified plumber can usually tell within a few minutes of inspection whether it’s a simple valve or fitting repair, or whether the tank itself has failed. If it’s the tank, replacement is the only real option — but a same-day swap is usually possible.

If your geyser is leaking, get it looked at before it becomes a bigger problem — the earlier it’s caught, the cheaper and simpler the fix tends to be.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of a leaking water heater (geyser)?

Common signs include water pooling under or near the geyser, rust-coloured water from the hot tap, a damp ceiling below where the geyser is installed, or a hissing sound from the tank. Any of these warrant a proper inspection before it fails completely.

Do you repair water heaters in Alberton?

Yes — geyser (water heater) repair and replacement is one of our core services across Alberton, Brackendowns and the East Rand, including PIRB compliance certification.