If you notice your water heater operating strangely, you might decide to turn it off in an attempt to prevent major problems. But this could still leave you wondering: Can a water heater explode if it’s turned off? A malfunctioning water heater is always at some risk of exploding, even when turned off. Trust plumbers in Ovilla, TX, to make repairs to address the issue and significantly reduce that risk.
Below, learn tips for recognizing when an appliance needs repair to avoid a potentially dangerous situation.
Level of Risk of a Water Heater Exploding If It’s Turned Off in Ovilla, TX
If you notice issues with your water heater, you can reduce the risk of an explosion by turning it off. However, that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Rather than worrying about the chances of something going terribly wrong, you should call for immediate help from a repair professional.
Reasons a Water Heater Might Explode, Even If It’s Turned Off
Simply turning off the water heater doesn’t eliminate the risk of an explosion. Pressure problems or a natural gas leak in the supply line might still be present when the water heater is turned off.
Problems With the Natural Gas Supply
If your water heater runs on natural gas, a gas leak could still occur when the appliance is turned off, increasing the risk of an explosion.
Only plumbers who have the necessary licenses, training, and experience can work on natural gas line connections. The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners provides these licenses, and the local government in Ovilla, TX, follows the board’s licensing requirements to the letter.
If the problem lies with the natural gas line on your property, you must hire a plumber to fix it. Atmos Energy, for example, provides natural gas service to many residents of Ovilla, TX, but it doesn’t do repairs past the property line and only maintains supply lines in the public right-of-way.
Malfunctioning Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
If the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve is not functioning properly, the system may have excessive pressure problems. The pressure relief opens when it senses that the tank is under excessive pressure because the water inside is too hot. In doing so, it allows cool water to enter the tank, reducing the overall temperature.
Without adding cool water, the heat inside the tank may continue to build until the metal gives out and an explosion occurs. A plumber can inspect the T&P valve and determine whether it needs replacement.
Too Much Sediment Buildup Inside the Tank
Corrosion can lead to sediment buildup in the bottom of the appliance’s tank. As the sediment level increases, it may cover the heating element. As a result, the sediment acts as insulation for the heating element, causing the water to become too hot.
A fully functioning T&P valve should stop the tank from exploding. However, if it fails, the results could be catastrophic.
Some tanks with excessive sediment will need to undergo a water heater replacement. In other situations, the repair technicians can flush the tank and safely remove the blockage, ensuring safe and smooth operation.
Signs That Indicate a Higher Risk of a Water Heater Explosion
If you notice odd performance from your water heater, you might wonder, “Can operational issues cause a water heater to explode if it’s turned off?” They can, and some of the signs that indicate these problems include:
- Rotten egg odor
- Popping noises
- Crackling noises
- Discolored hot water
- Excessively hot water
In Ovilla, TX, permits are not necessary for most water heater repairs. However, you will likely need a permit for a replacement or new installation of this appliance. Your licensed plumber can obtain the permit on your behalf.
Let Our Plumbers Help You Reduce the Risk of an Exploding Water Heater in Ovilla, TX
At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Duncanville, customers sometimes call us with questions. One that we hear more often than you might think is: Can a water heater explode if it’s turned off? While the risk of this appliance exploding is extremely low, a malfunctioning water heater has a greater risk than one that’s running smoothly, so don’t ignore it.
By allowing our plumbing experts to inspect and repair your appliance, you’ll enjoy peace of mind about its performance. Call us today for help. We serve the entire area in and around Ovilla, TX, and are proud to be the go-to choice among your friends and neighbors.
