What Causes Water Heaters To Explode in Duncanville, Texas, and How To Prevent It

Your gas water heater is making a funny noise, and you’re worried that it could catch on fire or even explode. Are you just being paranoid? Water heaters explode very rarely, but even so, it’s smart to know the signs of a pending explosion.

Below, learn what causes water heaters to explode, then call our trusted plumbers in Duncanville, TX, for water heater repair.

Why a Water Heater Explosion Is Extremely Unlikely

Over a century ago, when gas water heaters were in their infancy, explosions were alarmingly common. Pressure could build up in the units, causing them to erupt into flames and send metal shrapnel flying in every direction. Back then, you couldn’t fault homeowners for worrying about an explosion every time they used their water heater.

In response to the myriad explosions, the water heater industry created a solution: the temperature and pressure relief valve. This part recognizes when there’s too much pressure in the system and relieves it to prevent an explosion.

All modern furnaces come with a TPR valve, as well as other safety features to prevent fires and explosions. It should put your mind at ease to know that explosions are very uncommon.

What Causes Water Heaters To Explode in Duncanville, Texas?

While water heaters explode rarely, it does occasionally happen. Here’s what causes water heaters to explode and how to prevent a blowup in your Duncanville, Texas, home.

1. A Faulty Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve

Normally, your water heater’s TPR valve recognizes when there’s excessive pressure in the unit and opens to relieve it. But if the valve stops working, it won’t open, and pressure can build up to dangerous levels. If left unchecked, the water heater could develop a gas leak and potentially explode.

This is why regular water heater maintenance is a must. During maintenance, a technician will check the TPR valve to ensure it opens properly under pressure.

As an added precaution, you might consider installing a water hammer arrestor. A water hammer happens when water in the system flows in the wrong direction or stops suddenly, causing an increase in pressure. A water hammer arrestor can prevent this from happening.

2. Sediment Buildup in the Tank

When was the last time you flushed your water heater tank? If you can’t remember, your water heater could be a ticking time bomb.

Over time, sediment builds up in your system and affects its efficiency. Air and water can get trapped beneath the sediment, leading to a pressure buildup. With too much pressure, the unit might explode.

Experts recommend flushing your unit at least twice a year. If you’re unsure how to do it, call a pro.

3. Thermostat Failure Can Lead To Excessive Temperatures

What causes water heaters to explode? High temperatures can certainly do it.

You may love very hot showers, but high temperatures don’t do your water heater any favors. If the thermostat fails, the temperature in your water heater can get much higher than the unit can handle. Excessive heat leads to a build-up of pressure and a potential explosion.

Again, maintenance can help stop this from happening. A technician will inspect your thermostat and calibrate it properly. They’ll also tell you the optimal temperature for your water heater, which is usually no higher than 120 degrees.

4. Corrosion in the Water Heater

Just like anything made of metal, water heater tanks can rust and corrode. Your unit contains an anode rod to help prevent this. The anode rod collects damaging particles and corrodes in place of the tank. 

However, anode rods are typically only good for five to eight years. Neglect to replace yours and the tank may begin to corrode instead. Corrosion weakens the walls of your unit, making it more susceptible to an explosion.

The best way to avoid this is to have a plumber replace the anode rod every five to eight years. If you’re unsure whether your anode rod needs replacing, call us for an inspection today.