Water Heater Safety
You’ve heard before that you should have a licensed plumber handle and maintain your water heater. Do you know why water heater safety is so important?
Water Heaters Are Connected to Gas or Electricity
- Gas Water Heater:
- A catastrophic explosion can result from a gas leak igniting the ignition flame.
- If not properly vented, the result can be carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can make you suddenly ill or even cause death.
- Earthquake straps are a necessity, especially here in San Diego. An unstrapped water heater can fall, resulting in an active gas line.
- Electric Water Heater:
- The electrical heating elements are immersed in water. These elements can deteriorate with age and short out electrically to the water heater’s metal casing. When this happens, it’s possible to receive a severe and perhaps fatal shock when touching the unit’s housing or connecting pipes.
- Everyone knows that water and electricity don’t mix!
Why Require Permits
A permit is an application for inspection that allows a plumbing inspector to look at the installation to make sure it was installed properly. If not properly installed, the dangers can include: scalding, legionella bacteria growth, fuel gas leaks, ignition sources, fires, explosions, water leak damage/mold, structural stability and carbon monoxide asphyxiation. If someone other than a licensed plumber installs a water heater, there is always the chance of making a mistake that can result in a dangerous or hazardous condition.
Learn More and Contact Us
Do you suspect a water heater safety issue, an installation issue, or need a peace-of-mind maintenance check? Please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us here at 1-800-anytyme. We would love to help you out! Contact us via our contact form or call (760) 477-0072 to speak with a member of our team today!