What Does This Error Mean?

A Chromagen solar water heater leak from the pressure relief valve is often normal — see the PRV leaking page. A leak from the tank body, collector connections, or pipes is a fault requiring immediate attention — turn off the cold water supply to the unit and call a plumber.

Affected Models

Chromagen STD series
Chromagen TS series
Chromagen Soltherm
Chromagen Electra Solar
All Chromagen solar hot water units

Common Causes

Pressure relief valve (PRV) discharging — see PRV leaking for normal vs. fault diagnosis
Tank corrosion or sacraficial anode failed — inner tank has corroded through
Collector pipe joint failure — freeze-thaw cycles or UV degradation of pipe fittings at the roof
Electric element seal failed — water leaks around the element boss at the base of the tank
Collector glass cracked from hail impact or thermal shock

How to Fix It

Identify the source of the leak.

Look at where the water is coming from: the pressure relief valve pipe (often drips to a drain — usually normal), the base of the tank (element seal or tank body — serious), the pipes connecting tank to collector on the roof (joint failure), or the collector glass (cracked — visible damage). If you cannot see where the water is coming from, turn off the cold supply and watch where water continues to drip.
Turn off the cold water supply immediately.

If water is leaking from the tank body, collector pipes, or element connections, turn off the cold water supply valve to the unit. This is usually a ball valve on the cold water inlet pipe near the tank or inside a roof space access panel. Turning off the supply stops new water entering and limits water damage while you wait for a plumber.
Check the sacrificial anode.

Chromagen tanks use a magnesium sacrificial anode to protect the inner tank from corrosion. An anode that has completely dissolved allows tank corrosion to begin — eventually the tank leaks. Anode replacement is recommended every 5 years. A plumber can check and replace it during a service visit.
Inspect collector pipe fittings on the roof.

Over time, the flexible or rigid pipe connections between the rooftop collector and the storage tank can crack from UV exposure or temperature cycling. Look for drips from pipe fittings or green-stained copper joints on the roof near the collector. Flexible corrugated pipe connections are especially prone to failure after 10–15 years and should be replaced preventively.
Contact a licensed solar plumber for repair.

Do not attempt to repair a leaking solar tank yourself — working with high-temperature pressurized systems on rooftops carries serious risks. A licensed solar hot water plumber can diagnose whether the tank needs repair or replacement. Chromagen tanks typically carry a 7–10 year tank warranty — keep your installation paperwork and check if the leak is covered.

When to Call a Professional

Any water leak from the tank body, collector pipes, or element connections requires a licensed plumber. A tank that is leaking through the body (rusted through) cannot be repaired and must be replaced.