New Water Heater
Water heaters are a key part of our daily lives, but they’re also a potential fire hazard. If you’re in the market for a new water heater, there are many important safety features to look for that will keep your home and family safe.
Most people don’t think of their water heater as being dangerous but the truth is that they are. They are often located in a dark utility room or garage where flammable materials are stored. For this reason, it’s crucial to make sure that there is a firebreak around your water heater. This can be accomplished by using a piece of rope, tape, chalk or even a paint brush to mark off the area around your water heater. You should also remove any combustible items from the area, as they could cause an explosion if there is a spark in the future.
If you have a tank Phoenix water heater replacement that is gas powered, it’s especially important to keep anything flammable away from it. It’s best to store things like jump ropes, coats and canisters of gas well away from your water heater. This is because it could lead to a chemical reaction with the combustible materials if there was ever a crack in the water heater or a leak of fumes from it.
What Safety Features Should I Look For in a New Water Heater?
It’s also crucial to check the temperature and pressure relief valve on a regular basis. These valves are designed to prevent the tank from exploding in the event that the temperature or pressure goes beyond what is safe. The best way to test these valves is to simply pull up on the handle and make sure that water flows out freely, stops when you release the handle, and doesn’t drip. If you notice any of these issues, the valve needs to be replaced as soon as possible.
Another essential safety feature for gas powered water heaters is a carbon monoxide detector. If there is a crack or leak in the system, it can release carbon monoxide into your home. This is a deadly gas that can make you feel dizzy and cause headaches, blurred vision, memory loss or, in severe cases, death. You should have a carbon monoxide detector installed in your home in addition to the ones that are already placed throughout the house and office.
Aside from these safety measures, it’s important to regularly schedule a professional inspection of your water heater. This will help you to identify any potential issues that need to be addressed and can save you a lot of money in the long run. Today’s technology and smart home connectivity options can allow you to set reminders for these inspections and even get alerted to any unsafe conditions while you’re at work, on vacation or anywhere else. This can allow you to take action quickly and avoid costly repairs or even worse, a catastrophic explosion of your water heater.
