A Leaking Water Heater Can Be Hazardous

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

A leaking water heater in a Raytown, MO home

A Faulty Water Heater Can Pose Some of The Following Risks

Most people don’t give their water heater a second thought until they don’t have hot water anymore. If you don’t have any hot water, there’s a good chance that your water heater is leaking. Water heaters are usually located in inconspicuous areas such as a basement, closet or garage, so a leaking water heater may go unnoticed for days, or even weeks, as water builds. A faulty water heater can pose some of the following risks:

1. Electrocution

When you discover that your water heater has been leaking, shut off the power supply via the breaker box. It may seem necessary to get the leak stopped as soon as you notice it. But an electric current could very possibly be traveling through the water if there are other appliances or exposed wiring or power outlets in the area. Stepping in the water could be deadly. Be careful to not get into such a rush to stop the leak that you risk electrocution.

2. Fire

Electrical wiring that’s exposed to water for long periods of time can corrode. This corrosion could cause your electrical system can short-circuit, sparking a fire. This is another reason to shut off the power to the area of the leaking water heater as soon as possible.

3. Burns

Watch out for scalding hot water spewing from the water heater. Water heaters are pressurized and a broken water heater can burst under some circumstances. Turn off the water supply as soon as you can safely access the water supply valve. However, never cap the pressure relief valve; if you do it will eventually explode.

4. Water Damage

Water damage can start almost immediately. Carpet can become soaked and hardwood or laminate flooring can buckle. Water will seep up and through drywall.

5. Mold Growth

Mold growth can start in as little as 24 hours after the introduction of water. Mold spores will not only spread in the area of the failed water heater but could potentially affect your entire home.
If your home in Raytown, MO sustains water damage from a leaking water heater, call on water damage remediation professionals.