Water heater tank case rusted damaged leaks:(moderate?) This item is entered when the inspector notes excessive rust buildup on the underside of the tank above the flame,
and/or if excessive rust particles are noted atop the burner or on the sheet metal around the base of the burner. It is also entered if rust on the
sheet metal tank wrap is noted. Rust flakes lying atop the burner can be a clue to excessive tank rust, especially inside the flue tube which runs through the center of the water heater. Eventually, the tank may rupture and water may damage walls, ceilings, floors, etc. Pay special attention to this item if the inspector also indicated no
temperature pressure relief valve was installed. Excessive case rust is noted when the inspector sees corrosion and deterioration of the sheet metal surrounding the tank. Often this is caused by exterior moisture striking the unit, such as lawn sprinklers or rain, or if there are, or have been, leaks at the pipe fittings atop the unit or at the drain-down valve. Leaks are noted when it apparent that water is leaking from the tank. Sometimes what appears to be a leak is sweat running off the tank. This is especially prevalent with new installations or if the water heater is turned on after being off long enough for it to cool down to air temperature. Rust appearing on this water heater case may have been caused by leaky pipes above. It would require testing beyond the scope of a visual inspection to determine the source of the leak.
Handle type water shut-off valve
Water pipe size as viewed at the building shut-off:
Municipal or public sewer system
Private sewage disposal system
Sewer extractor pump
Sump pump drain system
The above information was provided by TWI Systems Copyright 1995-2007 1-800-553-5660. TWI is a fantastic company to deal with!