Why does a Water Heater Explode?
If not properly maintained after a water heater installation, it has the potential to explode, which renders it inoperable. It will also likely cause structural damage to your home and may also cause bodily injury if you are located too close to the water heater when an explosion occurs. Fortunately, there are signs that an explosion might be imminent, which allows you to take action before such a terrifying event can occur.
Reasons a Water Heater Explodes?
There are several reasons why a water heater might explode. First, an old tank may not be able to handle the pressure that builds up inside of it over time. Pressure can build up inside of older units because of a sediment buildup that prevents the proper flow of hot and cold water.
Furthermore, an older unit may be weaker, which means that it will have a difficult time maintaining its structural integrity as pressure builds. It’s also possible that the water temperature setting is too high or that there are other issues that can only be diagnosed by inspecting the unit.
What Are Some Clues That Your Water Heater Might Explode?
Typically, the T&P valve on the side of the unit will open if excess pressure builds up inside of it. You may also notice that water has drained out of the valve when it opened. Therefore, if you see water pooling near your water heater, have it checked for pressure issues.
Scheduling an inspection may be even more important if the water has a brown or reddish hue. This is an indication that it is clogged with sediment or some other foreign material. The unit may make an unusual amount of noise caused by excess pressure. When working properly, your water heater should make little or no noise while in operation.
Finally, you may notice a rotten egg smell coming from your unit when pressure builds up inside of it. This is typically caused by sulfur or other gasses leaking from the tank, which are highly flammable. It could also be a sign of a nearby gas line leak, which can also be problematic.
Potential Consequences of an Explosion
A water heater that is not properly strapped to the ground could go airborne in an explosion. This means that it could cause damage to several levels of your home or potentially escape your home and land on someone else’s property. However, more likely, it will likely result in a lot of hot water and steam being sprayed throughout your basement or garage. It may also result in a natural gas leak or electrical issues as it rips through walls or floors that hide important pipes and wires.
How to Avoid a Water Heater Explosion
Perhaps the easiest way to avoid a water heater explosion is to have it flushed every couple of years. This will help to remove sediment buildup and allow for proper water cycling. You’ll also want to be sure that you have the unit inspected regularly to ensure that any issues with the T&P valve or other components can be quickly fixed. In many cases, water heaters last for anywhere between 10 and 15 years. Therefore, if you have an older unit, it may be best to replace it. Finally, make sure that the heater is properly secured to the floor or wall to reduce the odds of it moving if an explosion does occur. Learn what size water heater you need for your home or property.
If you are worried about the condition of your water heater, it’s important to act fast. Acting now may mean that you spend just a few dollars on repair work as opposed to thousands of dollars replacing your water heater and the damage caused by an explosion. Thinking about replacing your old water heater? Learn about the most energy-efficient water heaters to install in your home or property.