4 Tips To Know When Your Water Heater Has Become A Hazard And Needs Replacement

Posted on: 3 December 2018

The plumbing in your home can cause many hazards when it is not properly maintained, and part of your plumbing system is the water heater. Water heaters can cause unique hazards and various problems when they become old and outdated, which is why you want to have yours replaced when it needs to be. Here are some tips to help know when the water heater in your home has become a hazard and needs to be replaced:

1. Electrical Water Heaters and Fire Hazards When They Age

Electrical water heaters may be something that you think of as somewhat safe, but you should not be complacent with routine maintenance, inspection, and repairs. Old wiring, leaks, and electricity can create unique risks of shorts and fire hazards in your home. You should have an electric water heater inspected regularly and repair damaged wiring. In addition, old and inefficient electric water heaters will need to be replaced when they reach the end of their lives.

2. Problems with Gas Water Heaters and The Dangers of Leaks

There are also problems with gas water heaters that you want to be on the lookout for. With any gas appliances, you want to be alert of any gas smells and have them checked if you think there may be a leak. In addition, you want to have the components of gas water heaters, as well as the lines inspected routinely to ensure there are not any problems. When you start to need frequent gas water heater repairs, it is better to go ahead and replace the appliance to avoid hazards in your home.

3. Old Leaking Water Heaters and Problems with Water Damage and Mold

The minor leaks of water heaters may seem like small problems when they start, but neglecting them can lead to serious damage to your home. The leaks lead to water damage, which can eventually cause hazardous mold growth in your home, too. If you have an old water heater that constantly needs leaks to be repaired, it is probably time that you have it replaced to prevent these hazards in your home.

4. Worn Pressure Tanks, Valves and Components Causing Explosion Risks

One of the biggest hazards that you have with an outdated water heater is the risk of explosion. These hazards start when pressure tanks do not work properly or when pressure release valves become stuck due to their age. The pressure tank should be inspected regularly on your water heater, and the entire appliance should be replaced when corrosion and age cause frequent problems with the pressure tank and valves of the unit.

These are some tips to help know when your water heater has become a hazard to your home and needs to be replaced. If you think your water heater has reached the end of its life, contact a water heater replacement service and talk with them about options to upgrade yours. 

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