Most of us just take our water heaters for granted. Whether we’re enjoying a piping hot shower or tossing in a load of laundry, we have grown accustomed to the convenience of having our water warmed quickly and with ease. Most times, we may even forget that we even have a water heater. However, like everything else in the home, water heaters do require upkeep and maintenance. And, anytime you possess an appliance that relies upon hot water and pressure, there is always a potential for an explosion — even if it is an extremely remote chance.
How Can I Tell If My Water Heater May Be About to Explode?
Fortunately, it is rare for a water heater to explode. Even more fortunately, you will likely have a warning if something is about to happen. There are a few telltale signs that something catastrophic could occur.
First, you’ll want to rely upon your sense of smell. If you walk past your water heater and detect a rotting egg odor, it is absolutely imperative that you reach out to a professional — at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing or elsewhere. The rotting egg scent will usually indicate the presence of sulfur. This, in turn, will let you know that there is probably a gas leak somewhere. Because the presence of gas can be so disastrous when it’s around fire, the potential for an emergency is very real. If you smell rotting eggs near your water heater, handle it immediately. In this situation, nothing good can come from putting it off.
The Signs That Your Water Heater May Go Haywire
Do you have discolored water? This is another sign of a potential hazard lurking in or around your water heater. This is also an emergency. If your water is anything but completely clear, it’s time to call in the experts for assistance.
Have you been hearing popping noises recently? This may be a sign of sediment coming into contact with air and water — and pressure building as a result. Of course, a pressure buildup is exactly what you want to avoid when it comes to your water heater. These are the exact types of conditions that can lead to a water heater explosion, so it’s crucial to reach out to a pro plumber. In addition to inspecting the situation closely, they will also most likely advise you to have your water heater “flushed” every year. This removes the sediment from the bottom of the heater, heading off any potential catastrophes before they take root.
Although you may be able to DIY water heater flushing, it might also behoove you to have your plumbing professional service it the first year. Also, you can have them point out the pressure relief valve to you so you can check it whenever you want. By carefully observing the professionals, you can learn a lot before making an attempt yourself.
Do You Have Doubts about the Initial Installation?
If you’re not an expert, it can be difficult to spot whether or not there have been any issues with your water heater’s installation. But if you’re not confident in the way it was installed for whatever reason, it may be time to get a professional opinion and make sure that everything is okay. Improperly installed heaters can lead to a whole host of issues, and it’s better to head off any problems with some preventative maintenance.
Is the Thermostat Functioning Properly?
One sneaky cause of water heater explosions is malfunctioning thermostats. When a thermostat stops working correctly, havoc can occur. Not only is there a potential for you — and everyone in your home — to suffer from burns, but the excess heat can also lead to the kind of high pressure that makes an explosion pop off. If you have any concerns whatsoever about the thermostat, it’s important to get it checked out sooner rather than later.
What to Do If My Water Heater Explodes?
If the worst-case scenario does occur — and your water heater explodes — it is absolutely imperative that you leave the area ASAP. Do not stick around and check on anything in the house; you must get yourself to safety and then contact emergency services for assistance. Also, do not attempt to walk back into the house until it has been assessed for damages and then cleared. Water heater explosions have been known to affect the structure of buildings, making them potentially hazardous for anyone who enters. From falling debris to fires, anything can happen. Until you have the green light from emergency responders, do not go back in the house. After the dust has settled and you’re certain that everyone is safe, it will be time to reach out to the insurance company and keep them apprised of the situation.
Water Heater Explosions: the Bottom Line
Fortunately, today’s water heaters are constructed specifically to make them safer. The chances are low that you will run into any issues that cause an explosion. However, it is always a good idea to keep yourself educated on the signs of an impending water heater explosion — and to do everything you can to educate yourself in order to avoid such a scenario in the future.