Factors Why a Hot Water Tank Will Explode
With regards to having to undertake maintenance on ones water heater, it is a reasonably low maintenance appliance. Nevertheless, one important component of it really should be checked out regularly. Hot Water Heater Repair Montgomery AL wants to pass on this safety information concerning ones water heater today.
Too much temperature if put together with tank deterioration inside the storage tank could potentially cause an explosion. Any time the water temperature is less than 212 degrees Fahrenheit, one is going to be secure from an explosion, though there is a real danger of scalding at that temperature. But, if the water temperature is above 212 degrees, water turns into steam, which will enlarge to 1,700 times the space it takes up as water. This is when an explosion can occur.
Warning Signals of a Water Heater Explosion
The leading sign is if one goes to get hot water from a faucet and only steam comes out. Without delay turn off power if one owns an electric water heater. If one possesses a gas hot water heater, turn off the gas valve going to the water heater. Next, get in touch with us to come examine the problem.
Minimizing Potential Water Heater Dangers
The most significant upkeep job having a water heater is to test the pressure relief valve, also referred to as the T&P valve, on a regular basis. This valve helps manage the pressure buildup inside the water storage tank to avert a hazardous increase in temperature and overpressure.
Warning!
Remember, the water discharge from a T&P valve is often rather hot. If you do not feel at ease examining the valve inform us. Additionally, executing any type of fixes to the valve really should be undertaken by a professional plumbing repair company.
How to Test the T&P Valve
Remove anything from around the place around the overflow pipe and floor drain.
Raise the test handle for around 5 seconds or until the water runs clean.
Release the handle.
If the T&P valve keeps on running with water, lift the handle up and down quickly to have it reseat itself. One might have to do this a few times. IF it has not been tested for a while, it might be difficult to raise it at first. Avoid using excessive force, but might need to make use of just a little.
If the T&P valve continues to have water coming out, it should be replaced.
Other points to watch out for are corrosion on the stem of the valve. If there is any water dripping out of the valve stem or from the drain valve.
Searching for far more ideas? Have a look at our additional articles right here:
Water Heater Maintenance Infographic
Related T&P Valve Testing Videos
Mythbusters did a test of the potential dangers of hot water heater explosions here:
What the Experts Say
- The discharge from a T&P valve can be very hot. It is very important that all T&P valves be installed properly with a discharge line piped downward to an adequate drain to avoid property damage and to minimize possible human contact.
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If the temperature in your heater remains high after you turn down the thermostat, the thermostat may be faulty. Consult a professional for repair. Read more…
Pressure relief valves sometime develop a drip when opened for the first time in years. Try opening and closing it a few times to see if it will seat itself. If you have a large leak or the drip doesn’t stop on its own in a day or two, the valve will need to be replaced. Read more…
