Unknown Explosives: Phoenix Water Heater Plumbing

Phoenix Water Heater Plumbing

If you don't think a lot about your Phoenix water heater plumbing, you're not alone.  Most of us don't give a second thought to the water heater, it just sits in the garage working tirelessly.  Mythbusters did a show a while ago putting water heaters to the limit. The result was literally explosive.  A water heater can withstand enormous amounts of pressure, some can be rated up to 150 psi, or 10 times atmospheric pressure.  In the test, the Mythbusters were able to get the tank up to 300 psi, which eventually shot the tank like a rocket.  This test was done with all safety measures removed, something you usually don't have to deal with, but water heater failure is still a danger to you in your home.

Phoenix Water Heater Plumbing

Proper maintenance is important to keeping a water happy and healthy and providing you optimal comfort at home.  A water heater is usually made to last 5 years, but to prevent a catastrophic failure, it is a good idea to schedule a yearly inspection by a plumber.  This can help prevent any rusting or build-up that results in leaks or other problems.

Most of the time improper maintenance won't result in a water heater blowing through your roof -but it is better to be safe than to be sorry.  Even if you think the risk of an exploding water heater isn't enough reason to keep an eye on your water heater, you can prevent more common issues like a flooded garage or not enough hot water by having it inspected regularly.  It is also worth it to check on the heater monthly by checking your

T&P (temperature and pressure) valve monthly.  Check on how to test the valve for your specific model, but it should have a little bit of water output.  If it doesn't, there is probably an issue with your heater, and you need a plumber to come fix it before the problem worsens.