Maintenance Steps To Keep Residential Water Heaters Safe

 Keep Residential Water Heaters Safe

As homeowners, we rarely think about water heaters until we can't take a hot, steamy shower. But did you know that maintaining this often-overlooked appliance is just as vital as maintaining the air conditioner or furnace?

A residential tank holds up to 60 gallons of liquid. The pressure within the unit typically measures anywhere from 50 to 100 pounds per square inch. The steel tank is tested to handle up to 300 pounds per square inch. Most feature a glass liner which is designed to prevent rust. In order to keep your tank in tip-top condition, there are a few items that should be tested on a regular basis:

1. The Temperature or Pressure Relief Valve

This valve is designed to prevent water heaters from exploding if the pressure inside gets dangerously high. You can actually test this part of the unit yourself once a year:

- Pull up on the relief valve handle. The liquid should flow out freely.
- As soon as you let go of the handle, the flow should stop.
- If it drips or runs very slowly, it's time to replace the part.

2. Drain the Tank to Avoid Sediment Buildup

You'll find a drain valve near the bottom of the unit. The liquid is usually directed to a drain or outside to avoid contact with you or other members of your household. It's a good idea to flush the unit once a year by draining it completely and then letting cool water run through it to wash out any sediment that may have settled on the bottom.

3. Check the Temperature Control

You can test the water heater's temperature by turning one of your taps on to its hottest setting and holding a meat or candy thermometer under the flow. The liquid should register at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit. There are a couple important reasons for this temperature:

- Legionella bacteria can grow in the tank at temperatures of less than 120 degrees Fahrenheit
- If your tap water is too far above 130 degrees Fahrenheit, your risk of scalding is greater
- Temperatures above 130 degrees Fahrenheit encourage sediment buildup and waste energy

4. Ensure Your Vents are Efficient

Poorly ventilated areas can cause gas fumes from the pilot light and carbon monoxide to build up to dangerous levels in your home. In order to maintain proper ventilation, check on the following items:

- Make sure the vent is the same diameter as the unit's draft diverter
- Make sure the vent goes straight up and out of the house, without any dips
- Make sure that the vent sections are double-walled when passing through walls or the roof

5. Some Final Safety Tips

- Don't allow paper, dust or other fire hazards to build up around water heaters
- Extinguish the pilot light before releasing flammable substances, even aerosol bug bombs
- For water heaters stored in the garage, raise the pilot light at least 18 inches off the floor to avoid gasoline fumes
- Install an automatic gas-shutoff valve to avoid an accidental fire if the unit shifts




By Ace Abbey
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8661521