Your home’s water heater is the source of hot water for washing dishes, showering, and cleaning. Understanding your water heater’s potential dangers can help you better navigate when inspecting and repairing your system. The more familiar you are with your water heater’s standard operational mode, the less likely you’ll be to feel overwhelmed once you require an inspection, repair, or complete replacement.

Potential Water Heater Dangers

Water heaters can become dangerous when pressure is unmonitored or uncontrolled. They can also become dangerous if they are neglected or not well-maintained. Some of the most common risks associated with residential water heaters include:

• Gas leaks
• Scalding hot water
• Carbon monoxide leaks and/or poisoning
• Rare explosions

Placement Location Matters

When investing in or installing a new water heater in your home, the placement of your new appliance is important. Ensure sufficient clearance around your water heater and make sure your water heater is elevated appropriately. The pilot light of your water heater should be placed at least 18 inches above the main floor.

Ventilation

Ensure your water heater has adequate space around it for proper ventilation. Proper ventilation will reduce the risk of the accumulation of combustible gases. Working with professional plumbers can help inspect your water heater’s pressure and any ventilation updates you may require.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Routine cleaning and ongoing maintenance of your water heater are also essential to minimize risks while preserving and extending its lifespan. Proper maintenance can significantly reduce the long-term costs of component replacements and major repairs. Some practices to keep in mind include:

• Inspect your water heater’s anode rod, and replace it to avoid tank corrosion.
• Remove any combustibles from the area, including paper materials and, in some cases, flammable items, such as gasoline.
• Flush your tank regularly, which can eliminate the buildup of sediment. Sediment is often located towards the bottom of the tank.
• Test safety features regularly, such as the pressure relief valve and the temperature of your water heater.
• Conduct annual inspections with the help of a certified and licensed plumber to mitigate risks and hazards.

Prevent High-Risk Situations

Always inspect your water heater’s flue and gas connections to check for gaps and potential breaks. You will also want to examine connections for looseness and other signs of corrosion and premature wear and tear. A soap solution can be used to check for bubbles, which is often an indication of a gas leak.

Maintaining your home’s water heater is another responsibility that shouldn’t be overlooked as a homeowner. When you understand the basics of how your water heater works and operates, you can easily pinpoint when sounds, odors, or components are not working properly. If you’re located in Antioch, CA, and you need water heater services, contact Almighty Plumbing today.