Water heaters can provide one of the highest forms of comfort in every home. From hot showers to clean laundry, warm water is the hero that many households rely on. However, like anything that produces heat, water heaters require some care and safety precautions to prevent danger.
Our team of plumbers at Air Tech Of Houston AC & Plumbing is here to share some water heater safety tips to protect you and your family from harm. As a professional plumbing company, we have experience installing, maintaining and replacing water heaters so Houston homeowners can continue living comfortable lives.
Why Is Your Water Heater Leaking?
A leaking water heater is an inconvenience. However, it’s also a warning sign that can indicate a larger issue with your unit. It’s crucial to be mindful of why your system is dripping water to prevent secondary problems from occurring. A few reasons your heater could be leaking are:
- Sediment buildup in the valve
- Pipe corrosion
- High pressure in the tank
- Loose valves
When there’s a problem with your plumbing system, trust our Houston Plumbers to discover a solution! Our team of experts is prepared to get your water heater operating efficiently again.
How To Practice Water Heater Safety
Your plumbing system is made up of many different components. These appliances work together to provide your home with clean, temperature-controlled water. It’s crucial to take precautions with your water heater to minimize safety concerns regarding you and your home.
Check The Temperature
Setting your water heater to the correct temperature is one of the most important parts of its safety. There are many dangers to setting the temperature too high, such as burns, leaks and even explosions in extreme cases. You’ll want to set your water heater temperature to no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid injury.
Test The Pressure-Release Valve
No one wants their water heater to explode! Thankfully, all of these systems have a pressure-release valve to prevent this. This valve releases any built-up pressure inside the heater that could lead to an explosion. Due to its essential function, the pressure-release valve must remain in good condition.
Pull up on the handle at least once a year to test your pressure-release valve. If water doesn’t flow from the valve, it likely needs to be replaced. Contact a professional plumbing company for maintenance if you’re worried about valve failure. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Check Your Ventilation
Your water heater must be ventilated properly to avoid the release of fumes into your home. It can be tricky to know if your ventilation system is in good condition since many things can go wrong. However, you can check for any loose or broken vents. You can also contact a professional for a more extensive inspection.
Remove Fire Hazards
If you have a gas water heater, it’s important to never store anything flammable near the pilot light. Objects like clothing, flammable liquids and ropes can easily catch fire if they come in contact with a flame. Keep the area around your water heater free from clutter to prevent future fires.
Install A Carbon Monoxide Detector
Carbon monoxide is a nearly undetectable gas that can cause serious health issues and even death. If your heater’s ventilation fails, carbon monoxide may be released into your home. It’s essential to have a detector to alert you and your family if this issue ever occurs.
Child-Proof Your Heater
Water heaters and children should not go together because of the many things that can go wrong. To protect your children, clearly block off the area where your heater is located with barriers or a sealed compartment.
Master Water Heater Safety Today!
If you’re still wondering how to stay safe with your water heater, Air Tech Of Houston AC & Plumbing is here to help. From repair services to replacement, you can count on us to keep this crucial system in excellent shape. We are on the job to help you solve any issues and stay safe. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
