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How to Ensure Water Heater Safety

Of all the things you’re required to pay attention to on a daily basis, your water heater probably ranks very on your personal scale of importance.  And that’s okay, provided you have someone keeping an eye on it for you.

That’s because the average lifespan of a storage tank water heater is only about 10 – 15 years, and that’s on the optimistic side.  Plus, as time wears on, your water heater starts to wear down in more ways than one.  With added wear and tear comes the risk of safety issues for your home and family.

With all that in mind, here’s what you can do to help your own cause:

Turn it Down!

If your water seems to be hotter than what your needs require, check the water heater thermostat. If it’s any higher than 120 degrees, turn it down.  If you’re unsure of the procedure, check your owner’s manual or enter the model and serial number on the manufacturer’s website for the information you need.

Check it Out!

Examine your water heater periodically, starting with a visual inspection around the base for signs of a water leak.  If you find any water, call a plumber to check for internal corrosion, the most likely cause of the leak.  If you’re up to it, it’s also a good idea to check inside the combustion chamber where the flame should be burning mostly blue. Also be on the lookout for excessive amounts of dust or any signs of rust.

Clean it Up!

Keep the area around the water heater clean and clear. Dust can take years off a water heater’s life. Brooms, paint brushes and other items that commonly get stored in the utility closet can catch fire if placed too close to the combustion chamber or water heater.

Be on the Alert for Gas Leaks!

If you don’t already know how, learn how to smell or otherwise detect a gas leak.  For starters you want to apply the smell test as close to the floor as possible.  If you smell gas, here’s what to do next:

• Don’t turn on a light switch or touch anything that might cause static spark.
• Leave your house as immediately, leaving at least some windows and doors open.
• Call your gas supplier from a safe location outside the house.
• Turn off the main shut-off valve at the gas meter.  If you don’t know what that is and want to be sure you’re doing it correctly, give us a call.

For an added ounce of prevention, we recommend the installation of a gas detection meter.  Its presence will help ensure your family’s long-term safety.

In addition to your own self-help measures, Messmer Mechanical urges you to have your water heater cleaned and inspected once a year. It’s vital to ongoing home and personal safety; plus, regular inspections will help your system perform better and last longer.  Has it been a year or longer since your water heater was last inspected?  If so, why not contact Messmer today.