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Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Water Heaters Water heaters are an obvious danger if not well maintained. They can set a fire, release scalding hot water and worse. It's a good idea to understand some of the basic issues involving water heaters and their maintenance. The main issues for you to focus on: They can be a water, gas or fire hazard and in earthquake country they are a safety issue. Water Shut Off Valves Damage to homes caused by burst pipes is an expensive problem. By the time a homeowner returns to discover the problem, hundreds of gallons may have flooded the home. Not to mention being sprayed with scalding hot water, since many heaters are still located in kitchens and other areas that people frequent. Temperature/Pressure Relief Valve this releases water if it senses excess pressure, generally because the temperature is set too high. Attached is a tube that should direct hot water away from people. This tube should connect to a drain or to the exterior. Some plumbers suggest a five gallon bucket to hold excess blow off. Automatic shutoff valves are available to prevent extensive water damage from plumbing failures. These valves use sensors to control water flow and avoid flooding caused by the domestic water supply. There are two types of systems Whole house systems are designed to turn off the water near the service valve to completely stop the flow of water to every faucet and pipe in the home once a leak is detected. Other systems are designed to be used with a specific appliance. Fire Hazards Earthquake Country creates dangers for water heaters. Laws are in place that require all water heaters to be strapped down using "plumbers tape". This is a heavy duty metal strap that states will require for all water heaters. It will prevent the water heater from falling over and breaking the gas pipe or spilling as much as 40 gallons of scalding water. It should be strapped and bolted to the floor to prevent all movement. Check with your state for the requirements. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Water heaters use gas to heat a tank of water. They need to be well ventilated to prevent the build-up of dangerous gasses that can kill. All heaters must be vented use a flu that generally goes to the roof. Any blockage of the flu or lack of oxygen in the area that the heater is located is a danger. Gas Leak
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