To avoid confusion over debits and credits, avoid thinking of them in the way that they are used in everyday language, which often refers to a credit as increasing an account and a debit as decreasing an account. For example, if our bank credits our checking account, money is added to it and the balance increases.
One way to reduce the frequency of this occurrence is to maintain an air pocket at the top of the water heater tank. This air pocket will form in the tank by design - however, it will be reduced over time by the everyday use of your water heater. To replenish this air pocket: Turn off the water heater.
Leaking Hot Water Heater Pipes. A leaking hot water heater can result from leaks in the pipes. At the top of your hot water heater you have an inlet and an outlet pipe. The cold water comes in and hot water goes out. There is usually an union on each one that allows for the removal of the hot water tank.