Possible Water Heater Leak

[Liming II]

Hello Everyone,
Boat information 2007 Lagoon 440 owners version.

We have what we think is a small leak coming from the water heater (Quick Nautic Boiler 60 BX), but cannot confirm visually or with video. When there is water, it tends to be on the rear starboard mount. Has anyone had experience replacing and or repairing the water heater? I think I know the answer to this question, but I'll ask it anyway, would repairing or replacing be easier at a dock or is it doable on the hook? The reason I ask is, we are at a marina until next week then are heading out and will be on a mooring ball for a few months. If anyone has experience could you please share? I was told that that the water could be coming from the pressure release valve could be faulty, but did not see any water in the area beneath the valve. The amount of water is small, but we want to make sure we get it fixed.
We would appreciate any recommendations or advise would be much appreciated

Thanks,
Mike

[tkeithlu]

No responses yet, so I'll give a try. I went and looked at it in the Go2marine catalog.

Stainless steel unit, 14 or so years old. It's really not likely that it has rusted out or otherwise catastrophically failed. That leaves the connections, the element, and the relief valve. Am I gathering that the ding-bat designer put the connections on the side you can't see/reach? Well, you need to see them. Given that they installed it in the first place, you should be able to uninstall it. Drain it and disconnect the 120VAC light-up-your-life electricity. Undo the mounting bolts, and twist it around so that you can get at the connections. The first links should be flexible, or hose, because they had to make the connections before they mounted it in an inaccessible place. Very likely you will be able to see the problem, and directly, not with a mirror. It may be the element, but is more likely a connection that isn't quite connected. Form a parts list and either order or go to the hardware store, depending on what you find.

It's only a dribble leak? You should be able to return the unit to its base at least well enough to fill it and use it at anchor/mooring while you wait for parts. Yeah, you can do it at anchor. It's going to be a PITA, but not rocket science.

If I'm totally wrong, and the inner tank has failed, it's toast. Not much chance of a repair.