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Can water heater explosion really occur? 

Water heaters are an essential component in most homes, necessary for providing hot water to your household.

While water heaters are generally safe, there are certain myths surrounding them that can cause undue concern.

One of the biggest myths is the belief that causes water heater explosion.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this issue and separate fact from fiction.

What is the truth behind water heater explosion?

Water heaters play a crucial role in our daily lives, providing hot water for various purposes.

However, the truth behind water heater explosions raises concerns about the potential dangers lurking within these seemingly harmless appliances.

An exploding water heater can cause severe damage and pose risks to individuals near the tank.

Understanding the warning signs, such as:

  • strange noises
  • leaks
  • pressure fluctuations.

This becomes vital to prevent a catastrophic event.

Factors like sediment buildup, faulty valves, and excessive pressure within the tank can contribute to the potential explosion.

Exploring the causes and preventive measures surrounding water heater explosions is essential to ensure the safety of homes and occupants.

What causes water heater explosion?

The truth is that water heater explosions can and do occur, but they are rare.

While it is possible for a water heater to malfunction and explode, it is important to note that this is an exceedingly rare occurrence.

 It is also important to distinguish between a catastrophic explosion and a leak, which is a more common issue.

Water heater explosions occur when there is a buildup of pressure inside the tank.

This pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

a malfunctioning temperature and pressure relief valve

sediment buildup inside the tank

excessive pressure from the home’s water supply.

Gas leaks can also cause an explosion in gas-powered water heaters.

While water heater explosions are rare, they do occur.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are approximately 5,000 water heater explosions per year in the United States.

This is a small fraction of the total number of water heaters in use, but it is still a cause for concern.

Warning signs of a potential water heater explosion

Your water heater plays a crucial role in providing hot water for your home.

It’s important to be aware of the warning signs that could indicate a potential water heater explosion:

  • Monitoring your water heater’s temperature and pressure is essential, as excessively high readings can lead to dangerous conditions.
  • Keep an eye out for signs such as scalding hot water, brown water, popping noises, or leaks near the water heater.

Popping noise coming from inside the tank is caused by the pressure inside the tank

This can be an indicator that the tank is about to fail,

Watch for issues with the temperature and pressure relief valve, gas leaks, or unusual expansion and pressure inside the tank.

A leak near the water heater can indicate that the tank is corroded and weakened

  • Being proactive with water heater services and promptly addressing any signs of trouble can help prevent a catastrophic water heater explosion and protect your home and loved ones.
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  • Brown water coming from your faucets can also be a sign of sediment buildup inside the tank.

Warning signs of a faulty water heater

Other warning signs of a faulty water heater include:

  • a lack of hot water
  • inconsistent water temperature
  • a pressure relief valve that is constantly releasing water.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your water heater inspected by a professional plumber.

How can you prevent a water heater explosion?

Regular maintenance and inspection are key to preventing water heater explosions.

It is recommended that you have your water heater serviced at least once a year by a licensed plumber.

Al Rooter Plumbing team provides water heater maintenance services

During this service, our professional plumber will check:

  • the pressure relief valve
  • drain any sediment from the tank
  • inspect the anode rod.

This helps prevent tank corrosion.

A plumber can also check for gas leaks in gas-powered water heaters.

Service should be done to help prevent a water heater explosion

To prevent a water heater explosion, regular maintenance and servicing are crucial.

It is important to be attentive to the signs your water heater exhibits, such as:

  • unusual noises
  • fluctuating water temperatures
  • discolored water.

Having a professional service your water heater can help identify and address potential issues before they escalate.

Key services include checking and adjusting the water heater’s temperature and pressure, inspecting the tank for:

  • sediment buildup
  • ensuring proper functioning of the relief valve
  • examining the overall condition of the unit.

These preventive measures are essential to keep the water heater in optimal working condition and minimize the risk of a hazardous explosion.

A water heater should be serviced by a professional plumber at least once a year.

This service should include:

  • checking the pressure relief valve
  • draining any sediment from the tank
  • inspecting the anode rod.

Things that are checked during a water heater service

During a water heater service, the plumber will check:

 

  • the pressure relief valve, which is designed to release pressure from the tank when it exceeds a certain level.
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  • inspect the anode rod, which helps prevent tank corrosion.
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  •  Drainage of any sediment build up inside the tank is also an important part of regular maintenance.

Can a plumber help prevent water heater explosions?

Yes, a licensed plumber can perform regular maintenance and inspection of your water heater to help prevent explosions.

A plumber can also check your gas-powered water heater for gas leaks, which can lead to an explosion.

Common causes of water heater malfunctions

Water heater malfunctions can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • a malfunctioning pressure relief valve
  • sediment buildup inside the tank
  • excessive pressure from the home’s water supply.

Gas leaks can also cause malfunctions in gas-powered water heaters.

Types of water heaters more prone to explosions

All types of water heaters can potentially explode, but gas-powered water heaters are more prone to explosions.

This is due to the presence of natural gas, which can ignite and cause a catastrophic failure if there is a leak.

Average lifespan of a water heater

The average lifespan of a water heater is 10-12 years. However, this can vary depending on the type of water heater and how well it is maintained.

 Over time, water heaters can corrode and become less efficient, which can lead to higher energy bills and eventually the need for replacement.

Signs that your water heater might need to be replaced

Signs that your water heater may need to be replaced include:

  • a lack of hot water
  • inconsistent water temperature
  • leaks near the water heater
  • excessive noise coming from the tank.

 If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it is also a good idea to have it inspected by a professional plumber.

You can check our water heater repair services

 can a water heater explode?

While it is less common, electric water heaters can also explode if there is a buildup of pressure inside the tank.

Regular maintenance and inspection are important for both gas and electric water heaters to prevent explosions and other malfunctions.

Check our electric water heater services

Conclusion

While water heater explosions can occur, they are rare and can be prevented with proper maintenance and inspection.

It is important to be aware of the warning signs of a potential water heater explosion.

You should have your water heater inspected by a licensed plumber at least once a year.

By taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure that your household has a reliable and safe source of hot water for many years to come.

Solve water heater explosions  with Al Rooter Plumbing team

Contact us today

  • Call us at (832) 434-5936: Call us at our hotline and our customer service team will be ready to take your call and address your plumbing issues.
  •  
  • Visit our website and fill out the contact form: Visit our website Al Rooter Plumbing Company and fill out the contact form with your information and plumbing issue, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
  •  
  • Email us at alrooterplumbingllc@gmail.com: You can also send us an email with your plumbing issue and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
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