A faulty geyser thermostat is a common culprit behind the frustrating issue of water pouring out of geyser overflow. The pressure relief valve, designed by geyser manufacturers as a safety mechanism, often activates due to excessive pressure caused by the malfunctioning thermostat or perhaps a rare kinked pipe creating a steam back-up. Understandably, homeowners want to find quick and effective fixes to prevent constant water loss, which leads to higher water bills, when they notice water pouring out of geyser overflow. This article will provide those solutions.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Everyday Home Repairs , from the video titled Why Is My Water Heater Relief Valve Leaking And How To Fix .
Geyser Overflowing? Stop Water Pouring Out! Fixes Now
A geyser that’s consistently pouring water out of the overflow pipe can be frustrating and wasteful. More importantly, it indicates a problem that, if left unaddressed, can lead to significant damage or even geyser failure. This guide will help you understand the common causes of "water pouring out of geyser overflow" and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix them.
Understanding the Geyser Overflow System
Before diving into fixes, it’s important to understand the purpose of the overflow pipe.
- Safety Mechanism: The overflow pipe is a safety valve designed to release excess pressure or hot water to prevent the geyser from bursting. It’s connected to the geyser’s temperature and pressure relief valve (TPR valve).
- Not a Drain: It’s not designed for constant drainage. Occasional drips after hot water use are normal, but a consistent stream indicates a fault.
Diagnosing the Problem: Why is Water Pouring Out?
Identifying the reason for the overflow is the first step towards fixing it. Here are the most common culprits:
1. High Water Pressure
Excessive water pressure from your municipal supply can overload the geyser.
- Symptoms: Constant water flow, possibly stronger during peak water usage times in your area.
- How to Check:
- Pressure Gauge: Ideally, install a pressure gauge on your main water line to monitor pressure. Optimal pressure is generally between 40 and 60 PSI (pounds per square inch).
- DIY Test: While less accurate, you can attach a pressure gauge to an outside tap.
2. Faulty Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve
The TPR valve is designed to release pressure when it exceeds a safe level. If it’s malfunctioning, it might release water prematurely.
- Symptoms: Steady stream of water, potentially accompanied by a hissing sound.
- How to Check:
- Manual Lever Test: Carefully lift the lever on the TPR valve. Water should gush out strongly and then stop completely when you release the lever. If the valve continues to drip or leak after releasing the lever, it’s likely faulty. Exercise caution when performing this test as the released water will be very hot.
3. Thermostat Malfunction
A faulty thermostat can cause the water to overheat, triggering the TPR valve to release water.
- Symptoms: Very hot water coming from taps, potentially scalding. Constant water flow from the overflow pipe.
- How to Check:
- Multimeter Test (Advanced): Using a multimeter, check the resistance of the thermostat. A qualified electrician should perform this test.
- Observe Water Temperature: Carefully monitor the temperature of the water coming from your hot taps. If it’s excessively hot, the thermostat is likely the problem.
4. Air Lock
Air trapped inside the geyser can create pressure and cause water to be forced out of the overflow. This is more common after recent plumbing work or water outages.
- Symptoms: Intermittent gurgling sounds from the geyser. Sporadic bursts of water from the overflow.
- How to Check: Difficult to diagnose directly, but try the remedies below.
5. Sediment Build-Up
Over time, sediment can accumulate in the bottom of the geyser, reducing its capacity and potentially interfering with the thermostat or TPR valve.
- Symptoms: Water may appear discolored. Geyser may take longer to heat water.
Step-by-Step Fixes: Stopping the Water Flow
Based on the diagnosis, here are solutions to address the "water pouring out of geyser overflow" issue:
1. Reduce Water Pressure
- Install a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV): This device regulates the water pressure entering your home. A plumber can install it on your main water line. This is the most effective long-term solution for high water pressure.
- Adjust Existing PRV: If you already have a PRV, check its setting and adjust it downwards (within safe limits – typically between 40 and 60 PSI).
2. Replace the TPR Valve
- Turn off the geyser: Switch off the power supply to the geyser at the circuit breaker.
- Turn off the water supply: Locate the cold water inlet valve to the geyser and turn it off.
- Drain some water: Open a hot water tap somewhere in your house to relieve pressure in the system. You can also carefully open the TPR valve briefly to release some water, but be very careful as it could be extremely hot.
- Remove the old TPR valve: Using a wrench, carefully unscrew the old TPR valve. Have a bucket ready to catch any remaining water.
- Install the new TPR valve: Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the new TPR valve and screw it into place, tightening securely with a wrench.
- Turn the water supply back on: Slowly turn the cold water inlet valve back on. Check for leaks around the new TPR valve.
- Turn the geyser back on: Switch the power supply back on at the circuit breaker.
3. Replace the Thermostat
- Important Safety Note: Replacing a thermostat involves working with electricity. If you are not comfortable performing electrical work, consult a qualified electrician.
- Turn off the geyser and water supply: As described above.
- Access the Thermostat: Depending on your geyser model, you may need to remove an access panel to reach the thermostat.
- Disconnect the wiring: Carefully disconnect the wires from the old thermostat. Take a picture of the wiring configuration before disconnecting to ensure you reconnect the new thermostat correctly.
- Remove the old thermostat: Unclip or unscrew the old thermostat.
- Install the new thermostat: Install the new thermostat, reconnect the wires according to your photo, and replace the access panel.
- Turn the water supply and geyser back on: As described above.
4. Bleed the Air Lock
- Run Hot Water Taps: Open all hot water taps in your house for several minutes. Start with the tap closest to the geyser and work your way outwards. This helps to force the air out of the system.
- Flush the Geyser: Some geysers have a drain valve at the bottom. Carefully open this valve to allow any trapped air and sediment to escape. Be prepared for a significant amount of water to flow out.
5. Flush the Geyser to Remove Sediment
- Turn off the geyser and water supply: As described above.
- Connect a hose: Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the geyser.
- Run the hose to a drain: Place the other end of the hose in a drain.
- Open the drain valve: Carefully open the drain valve and allow the geyser to drain completely.
- Flush with cold water: Once drained, turn the cold water supply back on briefly to flush out any remaining sediment. Then, turn it off and let the geyser drain again. Repeat this process until the water runs clear.
- Close the drain valve and refill: Close the drain valve, turn the cold water supply back on to refill the geyser, and then turn the geyser back on.
Troubleshooting Table
| Problem | Symptoms | Possible Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| High Water Pressure | Constant water flow from overflow, potentially stronger during peak hours. | Install a pressure reducing valve (PRV), adjust existing PRV. |
| Faulty TPR Valve | Steady stream of water, hissing sound. | Replace the TPR valve. |
| Thermostat Malfunction | Very hot water from taps, constant water flow from overflow. | Replace the thermostat (consult an electrician if needed). |
| Air Lock | Intermittent gurgling sounds, sporadic bursts of water. | Run hot water taps, flush the geyser. |
| Sediment Build-Up | Discolored water, longer heating times. | Flush the geyser. |
Geyser Overflowing? Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some common questions about geyser overflow issues and how to fix them. If your geyser is constantly pouring water out of the overflow pipe, read on!
Why is my geyser constantly overflowing?
Several factors can cause a geyser to overflow. The most common culprits are a faulty thermostat, a defective pressure relief valve, or a build-up of mineral deposits inside the tank. Any of these can cause the geyser to overheat and release water through the overflow pipe.
Can I ignore a geyser that is overflowing?
No, you should never ignore a geyser that is consistently pouring water out of the geyser overflow. Not only does it waste water and increase your water bill, but it also indicates a potentially dangerous problem that could lead to a geyser burst.
Is it safe to try and fix a geyser overflow myself?
While some minor plumbing fixes are DIY-friendly, geyser repairs can be risky due to the combination of water and electricity. If you are not comfortable working with plumbing and electrical components, it is best to call a qualified plumber. The constant water pouring out of geyser overflow indicates a potentially serious electrical malfunction.
What’s the first thing I should do when I notice my geyser overflowing?
The first thing to do is turn off the geyser’s power supply at the circuit breaker to prevent further damage or electric shock. Then, call a qualified plumber to diagnose and fix the problem. Continuing to let water pour out of the geyser overflow is not a viable solution.
So, the next time you see water pouring out of geyser overflow, you’ll know exactly what to do. Hopefully, these fixes work for you. Good luck getting that geyser sorted!