Water Heater Safety

If steam or boiling water ever comes out of the valve or the hot water faucets, shut the heater off at once. If you ever hear a rumbling sound, assume the heater is overheating and turn it off.

If temperature is a problem on a gas heater, check that the temperature control is on and is set correctly (normally 160 degrees- a little lower if there's no dishwasher). If you suspect a faulty control, test it by opening a hot water faucet for 3 minutes. If the heater doesn't turn on, reset the control to a lower temperature and test again. If it still fails, have it replaced.

Your hot water pipe is rusty or discolored.

Check for:

�  Accumulation of rust or sediment in the tank.

�  Scale has formed on the elements.

�  Corroded water pipe.

Remedies:

�  Drain the tank.

�  Remove the elements, soak them in vinegar and then scrape off the scale.

�  Have a plumber replace the pipes

Water is leaking from the heater.

Check for:

�  Leak in the drain cock.

�  Leaking safety valve.

�  Hole in the tank.

�  Leak in the plumbing connection.

Remedies:

�  Close it tightly or replace it.

�  Check the water temperature. If it's too hot, the thermostat may be broken. If the safety valve is defective, replace it.

�  Buy a new water heater.

�  Call Sugar Bear Plumbing, Inc.

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