You rely on your water heater for the hot water you need for cooking, bathing, and other daily activities. Improper use or neglect of a water heater can lead to hazards in your household. Fortunately, you can avoid these by following the essential water heater safety tips below.
Have the Heater Installed Properly
Water heater safety begins with proper installation. That’s why you need to have your water heater installed by a licensed plumber. Incorrect installation can lead to gas leaks, water leaks, or even explosions. A professional will make sure to adhere to local building codes to prevent any potential hazards down the line.
Schedule Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Regular maintenance is key to your water heater’s safe and efficient operation. Schedule annual inspections by a qualified plumber to check for any signs of corrosion, leaks, or malfunctioning parts. Maintenance should include flushing the tank to prevent sediment buildup that can lead to reduced efficiency and even overheating.
Maintain an Appropriate Temperature Setting
Setting the right temperature on your water heater can prevent scalding accidents. A temperature of 120°F (49°C) is generally recommended to prevent burns. Water hotter than this can cause serious burns in seconds, especially in children or seniors.
Check the Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve
A TPR valve is a critical safety feature of standard water heaters and some tankless ones. It’s designed to release excess pressure to keep the appliance from exploding. Have your plumber regularly check the TPR valve to ensure it’s functioning correctly and hasn’t become blocked or corroded.
Clear the Area Around the Heater
The area around your water heater needs to be clear of clutter, flammable materials, and other potential fire hazards. Leave enough space for proper ventilation, as a lack of oxygen can cause combustion problems with gas-powered heaters.
Keep Your Gas Heater Safe
If you have a gas water heater, there are additional safety considerations. You need to ensure proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. If you smell a rotten egg odor around the heater, it indicates hydrogen sulfide in the tank. A corroded anode rod or too many sulfur-reducing bacteria could be the cause. Either way, your plumber can resolve the issue.
Have an Electrician Help With Electric Heater Installation
A professional electrician must ensure the circuit breaker is correctly sized and maintained before an electric water heater is installed. Once the water heater is in place, if you notice any issues with its electrical system, turn off the breaker and call an electrician to address the problem.
Read the Owner’s Manual
Lastly, always read and keep the manufacturer’s manual for your water heater. It contains essential safety information about your appliance, maintenance guidelines, and troubleshooting tips.
Get Your Water Heater Inspected Today!
Water heater safety is something you need to take seriously. By following these top water heater safety tips, you can prevent accidents and extend the appliance’s lifespan.
Call us at Royal Services to schedule water heater inspection and maintenance in Brighton, CO and the surrounding area. We look forward to helping you keep your home’s water heating system running smoothly and safely for years to come.