Water Heater Explosions

A water heater explosion is one of the most dangerous and potentially deadly plumbing emergencies that can occur. Exploding water heaters have been known to shatter houses, restaurants and schools. A particularly lethal blast occurred in Texas in 1982 and sadly caused the death of six school children and a teacher. The cause was lack of proper safety inspections, and as a result the heater fell into disrepair.

Only one tiny valve, called the temperature and safety pressure valve, protects the average homeowner from disaster.Normally, whenever the internal pressure of a domestic heater hits 165 degrees, the TP valve will begin to do its job. Rising pressure caused by the expansion of heated water is released through the valve in the form of steam and hot water. Sadly, despite the inherent dangers in misuse of this valve, many DIY homeowners mistakenly believe the steam and hot water flowing from this valve is the result of a minor plumbing problem. All too often, the ignorant homeowner will try and plug the valve or turn it off to prevent the water leak. The results can be catastrophic. The pressure in the tank can rapidly build to a level more than twice the maximum specified capacity for the tank. Suddenly the tank will give way and an enormous explosion will ensue.
Four rules can protect a homeowner from the dangers of a water heater explosion.
1. If the Temperature pressure valve is dripping or leaking, have a plumber repair it and do not plug the valve or remove it.
2. Check your T & P valve at least once a year.
3. DO NOT let a handyman tinker with your water heater.
4. If you have an old hot water heater, be sure that your tank has a T & P valve as many of the old tanks were built without valves. If your tank doesn't have a valve, call a plumber to install one.

These four precautionary rules are easy to follow, but they can save lives and money. Remember, in the worst case scenario, your water heater could take off like a rocket, travel through each story of your house, blow through the roof, and come to rest blocks away causing terrible damage to a neighbor's house.

If you see water and steam coming out of your TP valve, call a plumber right away.

Article Source: http://gamblingarticlessite.com

According to Byron Graham, a Baltimore Plumber with A-1 Plumbing of Baltimore, a Baltimore plumbing company, water heater explosions are among the most avoidable plumbing emergencies.

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