Your home's water heater is an essential appliance, but also a dangerous one. Though some crafty homeowners may attempt to fiddle with, adjust, or even fix their water heaters, there are a number of reasons why this is a terrible idea. Instead, rely on a 24/7 plumber in Marietta to fix any water heater issues you may have, including showers and washers that will not produce hot water, or excessively high water temperatures. Here are some details about the dangers of fooling with your own water heater. The Dangers Just in case the warning pictures of melting hands or limbs on fire plastered all over the water heater do not deter you, you should know just how dangerous fooling with this appliance can be, for your health and your property. These are just some of the many risks: - Because water heaters contain a tank of extremely hot water, releasing water—from the valve or by tripping a pipe—can result in severe or even fatal burns.
- You can even become burned by touching the external walls of the machine or any of its components.
- If you attempt to flush your own tank, you can potentially flood the room, waterlogging your basement, utility room, etc., with very hot water.
- Shoddy repairs on your part can lead to small, unnoticeable leaks, which can cause extensive, hidden water damage over time. You may end up having to replace drywall, wooden frames, furniture, and other materials around the water heater.
- Last but not least, there is the rocket power of your water heater. Believe it or not, your home contains a machine that can literally explode and take flight.
How Water Heaters Burst The events separating you from ordinary, happy, hot showers and a catastrophic water heater burst are actually very minor. For instance: - If a gas leak occurs around your water heater, the stray gas can fuel the ignition flame that heats your water, turning a small flame into a rocket-fueled flame.
- Typically, your water heater should shut off or release pressure on its own if the internal pressure becomes unsafely high. However, if the pressure release mechanisms fail, then the buildup of pressure can lead to an explosion.
- If you attempt to adjust or repair your own water heater, you can damage the pressure relief valve or accidentally adjust the thermostat settings--both of which can lead to explosive pressure levels.
Preventing Take-Off Keeping your water heater anchored in place instead of up in the air or in pieces throughout your home is actually very simple: - Include a water heater inspection in an annual plumbing tune-up. A professional plumber can verify that all parts are in good condition and working properly.
- Leave any repairs or replacements to experts. Given the cost of replacing a house than is blown to pieces, you save money in the long run by investing in professional plumbing services.
- Consider lowering the temperature on your water heater. Not only will you lower your energy costs, you will prevent accidents and extend the life span of your water heater.
- Entrust your water heater to a 24/7 plumber in Marietta so you have access to professional repair and inspection services in your area any time of day or night.
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