While it doesn’t happen frequently, water heaters have been known to explode if they aren’t cared for properly. A lack of maintenance and faulty components can increase the odds that this problem will occur. Thankfully, this issue only occurs under specific circumstances, and there are common signs you can look out for.
What Can Cause a Water Heater To Explode?
There are two key factors required for an explosion to take place. If the internal temperature and pressure get high enough in your water heater, it can explode. There are normally safety mechanisms installed that prevent the pressure and temperature levels from rising too much, but malfunctions have been known to happen.
If the water’s temperature is too high, it causes thermal expansion. This leads the water to take up more room, which leads to higher pressure in the tank.
Most tanks have sediment at the bottom of the tank. This sediment can insulate the tank so that it warms up even more. Often, this entire process starts because of a component defect. Rust and metal corrosion can prevent components from working properly.
Ideally, the water heater should be protected by a temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve. If this component is faulty as well, then the excess pressure can’t be released in a safe way. Instead, the tank explodes.
Signs Your Water Heater Is About To Explode
There are a few indications that your water heater may be about to explode. To avoid this danger, it’s important to call a professional as soon as you notice any of the following signs.
The T&P Valve Is Always Open
The T&P valve is supposed to open up when the internal pressure or temperature reaches a certain point. This allows cool air to lower the water temperature. Then, the valve closes once the problem is over. If the valve is always open, it means that there is an ongoing problem with your tank’s temperature and pressure. You should call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing right away because your tank could explode if the T&P valve doesn’t get fixed.
You Have a Leaky T&P Valve
The T&P valve shouldn’t allow water to come out. If you notice liquid around the T&P valve, it is a sign that it isn’t working properly. Your tank won’t be able to handle increased pressure, which is a major risk for your family.
Something Smells Like Rotten Eggs
If you notice the scent of rotten eggs near your water heater, it indicates that there may be damaged gas lines or installation issues. Because the pilot light can ignite gas, there could be a fire or explosion.
You Have Brown Water
When the water turns brown, it means that you may have a problem with your hot water tank. Brown water means there is sediment or rust in the water. Rust occurs when components or tanks have rusted. Rusted components are often faulty components, so you need to get this problem checked out right away.
There Are Popping Sounds
Normally, you are supposed to flush your tank once or twice a year. If this is not happening on a regular basis, sediment will gather at the bottom of the tank. Once the sediment gets thick enough, it will create an insulating layer between the water and heating elements. This reduces the heating efficiency of the elements.
When this occurs, you may hear a popping noise. This noise is caused by the boiling of the trapped water beneath the sediment. Because sediment can also clog the T&V valve, it can create an additional explosion risk.
Schedule a Maintenance Visit for Your Water Heater
At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, we recommend getting your water heater serviced at least once a year. During the maintenance inspection, we will make sure that the tank has been flushed properly. Additionally, one of our plumbers will inspect your water heater and plumbing system for faulty components.
If you notice signs of a faulty water heater between maintenance visits, you need to quickly arrange for an inspection. Prompt repairs can extend the lifespan of your unit, so you should get everything taken care of right away. To get help and schedule your next maintenance check, reach out to one of our team members today.