As a homeowner, you should be aware that water heaters might rupture. As a professional water damage restoration company, we at National Restoration Experts understand the importance of knowing everything there is to know about your home’s plumbing systems, therefore the goal of this article is to explain everything you need to know about your water heater. We will specifically discuss how water heaters are constructed, the reasons for a water heater burst, and what to do in the case of a water heater burst.
How Do Water Heaters Work?
The simplest water heater design consists of a cylindrical tank filled with water and attached to some sort of heating device. Most water heaters are either electrical meaning heat is applied within the tank, or gas-powered meaning heat is delivered outside through a burner and a chimney. A pipe on the tank’s roof transports hot water via your home’s plumbing to your faucets. A pressure release valve is also installed on the heater to prevent excessive pressure from building up and triggering an explosion. Tankless water heaters, which heat and pump water on demand rather than keeping it in a tank, are also available but we’ll get to those in a moment.
What are the Causes of A Water Heater Burst?
Water heater bursts can be caused by a number of factors. One of the most prevalent causes is sediment accumulation inside the tank. As sediment from minerals containing hard water accumulates on the tank’s bottom, it insulates the water from heat. This implies that the heating system needs to work harder to heat the water, which might harm your tank due to overheating.
Rust accumulation in a steel water tank can potentially cause it to rupture. Water heaters contain a sacrificial anode, which is a metal rod that collects rust in lieu of the tank to guard against corrosion. When there is substantial rust accumulation, it is necessary to replace the rod, which is generally every four years or so.
Excessive pressure can create an explosion, which is one of the final causes of a water heater burst. Although pressure release valves in tanks are intended to prevent this, they can wear down over time. To prevent wear, inspect the valve twice a year to ensure it can release water, and avoid running your water heater above 125 degrees Fahrenheit.
Is It Possible For A Tankless Water Heater To Burst?
The good news is that tankless water heaters do not burst. There is no tank so there is no need to be concerned about pressure building. Tankless water heaters are often fueled by gas and there is a theoretical danger of carbon monoxide leak. This leak is easily prevented if regular maintenance is performed.
What Do You Do When Your Water Heater Bursts?
The reason for a water heater burst is not always obvious. A faulty thermostat might cause the heating element to overheat the water, causing the volume within the tank to be too large for the seams to support. A fitting could have also rusted and this could result in a big leak. Whatever the origin of the issue, you must act promptly to prevent more damage to your property.
- Stopping Water Flow: Determine the location of the cold water supply line. This pipe connects the main water line to the water heater’s top. When the tank is full, the water stops flowing, however because of the burst, the tank sends the water out into the room as soon as it comes in from the pipe. Turn the cold water supply line off by turning the valve clockwise until it can no longer turn. This will stop the flow of water that is still filling the hot water heater and leaking from the broken seams.
- Shutting Off the Power: If the electric or gas heating element is left on, it might pose a new risk to your house. It can remain warm for a long time after the water has spilled from the tank. This can squander energy and, in the worst-case situation, cause a fire to ignite. The heating element typically turns off when the water reaches a particular temperature, but if your tank burst due to a defective thermostat, it will most likely not turn off. Locate and switch the hot water tank breaker in your electrical breaker box. If the hot water heater is fueled by gas, turn off the gas line to it and leave the house until the natural gas smell has gone away completely.
- Water Heater Burst Cleanup: Remove any salvageable furniture, cartons, or other objects from the water-damaged area. Take photographs of the damaged goods, as well as the walls, floors, and any fixtures that have been coated or wet with water. The photographs will assist your homeowner’s insurance provider in determining the cost of repairing or replacing the items. Remove any standing water from the area surrounding the tank and any carpeted areas where the water has infiltrated using a wet-dry vacuum. Run a dehumidifier if you have one to prevent mold development.
- File an Insurance Claim: To file a claim, call your insurance agent or firm. Even if you do not believe you have incurred a loss, the insurance company will most likely dispatch a team of repair professionals to remove extra moisture from your walls and flooring. Do not dispose of your hot water tank. The insurance adjuster will need to inspect it in order to establish the source of the burst and whether the company will pay for the damages caused by the burst.
The cost of the water heater itself is unlikely to be reimbursed, but almost everything else damaged by the water will be covered, less your deductible. An insurance adjuster will come to your house to evaluate the damage. Display the photographs you took to the adjuster and answer any questions she may have.
After you’ve completed these preliminary steps, the next step is to call a reputable water heater burst restoration company, such as National Restoration Experts. We will send a specialist to your house to examine the damage, aid with cleanup, and advise you on whether your water heater should be repaired or replaced. Whatever occurs, don’t worry, specialists like us will make sure everything is working and cleaned up correctly.
A Water Damage Restoration Company Serving South Florida
Just several restoration companies in Florida can compete with National Restoration Experts’ work and service quality. Give your property the finest servicing possible. Contact National Restoration Experts at 754-216-4660 now for 24 hour water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, or mold remediation, or receive a quick quote from our website. In 30 to 60 minutes, our restoration crew will arrive at your south Florida house or office.