If you don’t properly maintain your home’s water heater, there is a chance that it will explode. Even if it doesn’t explode, poor maintenance can lead to sediment buildup and other issues that can reduce its useful life. Let’s take a closer look at what causes a water heater to explode, the potential consequences of an explosion, and how the team at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing can help you avoid such a scenario.
What Causes a Water Heater to Explode?
In some cases, improper installation may be enough to cause the water heater to explode. For instance, if the pressure release valve is blocked because it’s facing a wall or some other solid object, it won’t be able to allow extremely hot water to vent out.
There may also be issues with a pressure valve even if the unit is installed correctly. Ideally, you will test the valve every few months by pushing its lever down for a few seconds and observing what happens. If it’s in good condition, it will simply go back to its normal position. You should also notice a small amount of water come out as well.
Over time, the holding tank can rust, which will make it harder for heat to escape. It may also cause imperfections in the tank that can make it more vulnerable to a full rupture or explosion.
Signs That Your Water Heater Might Explode
There are many signs that your water heater is about to explode or may be at a higher risk of an explosion in the future. If you notice an inconsistent water temperature when taking a shower, it might be a sign of sediment buildup. It may also be a sign that heat is trapped in the holding tank and needs to be released.
You might also hear a whistling sound when the water heater is activated. This is a clear sign that pressure is building up inside of the heater and should be dealt with quickly.
It’s possible that you’ll actually see the tank moving if it is under extreme stress while in operation. The water that comes out of your tub faucet or kitchen sink tap might appear brown or orange instead of clear. You may also notice that the pressure release valve is frequently activating and that the water it releases is discolored.
Finally, you might notice a rotten egg smell. This can be a sign of a gas leak near the water heater, which can provide the spark needed to cause even a properly functioning water heater to explode.
What Happens During and After an Explosion?
If you are too close to a water heater when it explodes, you’ll likely be subject to a torrent of scalding water rushing your way. You may also feel a shock wave as a significant amount of energy is created in the blast. It’s possible that your entire basement or other parts of your home will be destroyed almost instantly.
There is also a chance that the water heater itself will be propelled to the sky. This is especially true if it is not strapped down properly or is in the garage or attic and doesn’t have to go as far to escape your home. Depending on where your water heater lands, it could cause property damage or bodily injury to others in your home’s vicinity.
If you think that an explosion is imminent, it’s important to get outside and call for help. This is even more important if you smell gas because a gas leak can cause additional health and safety issues even if your water heater remains intact.
How Can the Folks at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Help?
The team at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing can inspect your water heater for signs of damage before anything happens. In fact, we can provide regular routine service to minimize the risk of damage that could lead to an explosion. If we do detect issues with your water heater, we’ll work with you to determine whether to fix the problem or replace the item entirely.
Replacing a water heater is generally a good idea if it is more than a decade old. It may also be a good idea if you see water pooling around it or if there are issues with the pilot light. Depending on the unit’s age, it may be covered by a warranty, which means that you don’t need to pay to replace it.