Can Your Water Heater Catch Fire?

Understanding the risks associated with your water heater is an important part of responsible homeownership. While these systems are essential for satisfying your hot water needs, they can also pose significant safety threats if not properly maintained. One of the most concerning dangers associated with water heaters is the potential for your unit to catch fire or explode.

In this blog post, the plumbing experts at Alliance Plumbing delve into the fire risks of water heaters, offering top tips on how to take preventative action and protect your home from potential disaster.

Main Causes of Water Heater Explosions

Water heaters operate by heating water inside a tank using gas or electricity. Equipped with safety features like pressure relief valves, these systems ensure your water heater remains safe from dangerous malfunctions. However, certain factors may ultimately cause your water heater to ignite or explode, the most common of which being:

Gas Leaks

One of the biggest risks associated with gas water heaters is the potential for a gas leak. If a leak occurs and the gas accumulates in the area around the water heater, even a small spark can trigger a powerful explosion. Gas leaks can occur due to damaged or loose connections in the gas line or from a problem with the system itself. These leaks aren’t always easily detectable, which is why it’s imperative to schedule routine maintenance to avoid potentially lethal accidents.

Electrical Problems

Fires can still occur in electric water heaters due to malfunctioning electrical components. Faulty wiring, frayed cords, and heating element issues can all lead to sparking or overheating within your system. If electrical components are not properly insulated or if the heater is installed too close to combustible materials, these problems can quickly escalate into a fire event. Regular electrical inspections and professional installation can help reduce these risks.

Improper Maintenance

Failing to adhere to a regular maintenance schedule can have a significant impact on your system, including an increased risk of fire or explosion. For instance, excess sediment buildup in the bottom of your tank can result in overheating. By not flushing the tank, efficiency will decline as the risk of overheating increases. Additionally, neglecting to check for leaks, test the pressure relief valve, or inspect gas connections can leave your water heater susceptible to dangerous malfunctions.

Malfunctioning Pressure Relief Valve

The pressure relief valve is a critical safety feature that releases excess pressure buildup inside your water heater tank once the water is heated. If the valve becomes clogged or malfunctions, the pressure inside the tank could reach dangerous levels, leading to a potential explosion. A faulty valve could also result in overheating, which could ignite nearby flammable materials and cause the water heater to catch fire. This is why it’s essential to perform regular valve tests to ensure proper functionality and prevent accidents.

Why Choose Alliance Plumbing?

If it’s been more than a year since your last water heater tune-up, it’s time to invest in professional maintenance to ensure your system remains free of the threat of potential fire or explosion. At Alliance Plumbing, we proudly offer the comprehensive system inspections you need to regain total confidence in your water heater. With over 20 years of local service experience and an unwavering commitment to complete satisfaction, you can count on us to provide the thorough tune-up you need to keep your system running smoothly.

Book your water heater tune-up in Webster, TX, by contacting our team online today.