Your water heater is one of the most important plumbing appliances in your Dallas home. When it breaks down, you lose a significant chunk of the modern comforts you enjoy as a homeowner.
However, even when it is working, many homeowners are often worried about the state of their water heater and how their usage habits can affect it. As the best plumber in Dallas, TX, we get many questions regarding the usage of hot water heater systems.
For example, can a water heater explode if turned off? We’ll dedicate this post to answering this question.
The Risk of Explosion in Water Heaters
Water heaters can explode. However, the risk is almost non-existent if the unit is in great shape. Many homeowners in Dallas, TX, will go through a lifetime without experiencing a water heater explosion.
Can a water heater explode if turned off? It’s highly unlikely. Your water heater will not have a “switch off” mechanism if it could cause the unit to explode. So, if you’re thinking about turning off your water heater before you travel, for example, you should feel free to do so without any worries.
Can a water heater showing signs of trouble still explode after you’ve turned it off? Unfortunately, it’s likely. Of course, the chances are much lower than when the water heater is still running, but the risk is still there.
Turning off the water heater is not a substitute for getting quality repairs for your water heater-related plumbing issues.
What Are the Causes of an Exploding Water Heater?
Some of the most common reasons for water heater explosions include the following:
Pressure Buildup
This plumbing problem is the most common reason for water heater explosions. Water expands as it heats up; therefore, manufacturers put mechanisms in place to relieve that pressure. When something throws the pressure regulation system off-balance, an explosion is highly likely.
Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve Problems
The pressure relief valve is the central element of components designed to prevent pressure buildup. The professional term for it is the T&P valve. This valve monitors changes within the water heater.
As the temperature or internal pressure climes to dangerous levels, the T&P valve will open to allow cool water to enter the tank and prevent an explosion.
If the valve doesn’t open, pressure will build up to unsustainable levels in the tank. If the valve always stays open, the water heater won’t maintain a consistent temperature.
Sediment Build Up
Rust and excessive minerals in water can accumulate at the bottom of the water heater tank over time. The buildup acts as extra insulation, causing the heating element to overheat. Overheating can cause increased pressure inside the tank, which might result in an explosion.
Gas Leaks
Can a water heater explode if turned off? Yes, if it’s a gas-powered unit with a leak in the gas line. If the leak continues, It won’t matter if you’ve turned off the water heater. Once the gas is ignited, the water heater will likely explode first.
What Are the Signs of a Water Heater Likely to Explode?
You should call a plumber right away if you notice any of the following signs:
- Popping or cracking sounds. Cracking and popping sounds point to high pressure within your water heater tank. You may also notice a water leak.
- Scalding hot water. Your water heater is designed to only deliver usable hot water. A faulty thermostat can alter the water temperature, making it too hot. The high temperature also increases the buildup of pressure within the system.
- Water discoloration. Brown or rusty water is not just unsafe to drink. It also shows that your water heater is at risk of explosion due to excessive heat buildup in the tank.
- Smell of rotten eggs. If you have a gas-powered water heater, you should watch out for that rotten egg smell that indicates a gas leak.