How can you protect your family from a water heater disaster?

You may have heard about the home explosion that rocked a Valley neighborhood recently. Experts say that an electric water heater caused the explosion, which hurtled it more than a football field away.

How can this happen?

A water heater can have two main safety features:

1. A Temperature and Pressure Valve and;
2. A High Temperature Switch

In order for your water heater to release pressure, both of these systems need to be working properly. The Temperature and Pressure Valve, is designed to regularly release water if the temperature or pressure of your water heater becomes too high. If both of these safety features are malfunctioning, then water is trapped causing a build up of pressure. This build up of pressure can then cause an explosion to happen.

How can you prevent it?

This simple issue can be solved with regular check ups. Just likecars, waterheaters need regular maintenance and updating. The older your water heater is, the more likely its systems will begin to fail. The Temperature and Pressure Valve on all water heaters should be checked once a year to ensure that the valve is releasing pressure appropriately and to determine whether or not your water heater needs to be replaced.

The two most important things you can do to protect you, your family and your home are to:

1. Get your water heater periodically checked.
2. Replace your water heater appropriately (typically, an electric water heater will last 6 years while a gas water heater will last ten years).
3. Make sure to have your water heater flushed once a year to prevent the build up of mineral deposits, extend the life of your heater, and help it run more efficiently.

How can we help?

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing offers a 14-point water heater inspection ensuring that your water heater is always in good working shape.

In order to provide you the most efficient service, our inspection will examine the following components:

Emergency Shut Off • Secure Supplies • Anode Rod • AMP Draw • Fitting and Gas Leaks • Check Valves • Intact Dip Tube • Thermostat Temperature • Temperature and Pressure Valve Check • Electrical Connections • Recirculation Pump • Height of Water Heater • Drain • Expansion Tank Bladder

Or better yet…Become a “Ben Franklin Society” Member! “The Ben Franklin Society” is a private membership service club that’s limited to 22% of our customer base and is considered plumbing security for your home. For only $7.95 a month, you’ll receive: yearly inspections, a 15% discount on repairs and replacements, and priority scheduling.

Don’t wait until a disaster happens. Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing today
(602) 944-6468.  

We are a "Rosie On The House" certified contractor.