What Do I Need To Do When My Water Heater Bursts?

Last Updated on August 16, 2023 By Emma W. Thomas

If your water heater bursts, follow these steps:

• Turn off the water supply and electricity/gas
• Avoid contact with hot water
• Open faucets to relieve pressure
• Contact a plumber or repair service immediately

What To Do When Your Water Heater Bursts

If you realize that your water heater is leaking or has burst, you need to act fast to prevent severe damage to your home or office. The following steps are essential;

1. Turn off the water supply

If you notice water leaking from your heater, you need to turn off the supply immediately. Close the pipe leading from the main water line to the top of the water heater. Look for a valve at the point of contact between the water supply and the tank and turn it clockwise to prevent water from entering the tank.

2. Put Off The Power Supply

A water heater has a gas or electric heating element inside it and is usually submerged. If the hot water tank becomes empty, the element will be exposed and get dry, which can lead to a fire hazard.

The element is designed to turn off automatically when it reaches a specific temperature, but a leaking tank may cause it to malfunction and remain on. Look for the breaker for your hot water tank in the electrical box and flip it.

3. Remove Everything That Is Near The Water Heater

If you have any furniture, boxes, or other items close to the water heater, move them away to prevent damage. Ensure that you remove the items from near the heater so that they don’t come into contact with water, which may spoil them.

4. Call A Professional Plumber

Once you have put off the power and water supply, you need to contact an emergency plumber to clean up and repair your plumbing system and water tank. You can also reach out to the insurance company if the damage is extensive.

5. Clean Up Excess Water

Clean up the mess caused by excess water as you wait for the plumber to come and fix your device. You can use a wet vacuum cleaner if you have one or tidy up using a mop or towels.

What Causes A Water Heater To Explode?

Do you wonder why a water heater would explode? There are various reasons for such an explosion, which can be terrifying. Excessive pressure on the water heating system is the main reason why it can explode.

A lot of sediment build-up or weak anode rod can also cause an explosion on your water heater. Leakage in your gas system is also a tremendous fire risk, which is also a potential cause for the water heater to explode.

Signs That Your Water Heater Will Explode

Water heater explosions can be risky.  You need to look out for signs and call a professional to inspect your device and fix any issues before it is too late. The following indicators are worth checking;

1. Leakage In Pressure Valve

A valve prevents pressure from building up inside the water tank when your heater is treating the water. Sometimes this safety mechanism may malfunction and allow a lot of pressure to build up, which causes the valve to leak.

2. Foul Smell

If your water heater produces a rotten egg’s smell, it is an indication of sulfur being released, which is a symptom of gas leaking. A water heater has a pilot flame that will explode when it catches fire.

3. Brown Water

If you notice brown water around your water heating appliance, it is critical to contact an expert to inspect it. This sign could indicate a possible explosion and pose a health risk to you and your family. Brown color in water could mean that there is sediment building up or rust in your water heater pipes.

4. Popping Sound

Mineral deposits can accumulate at the bottom of your water heater tank, and you need to drain them at least two times a year. If a lot of residue builds up, air and water can get stuck beneath it and produce popping noise due to a lot of pressure.

5. Poor Installation

Improper installations can cause pressure to build up, gas leaks, or other problems that can lead to an explosion of your water heater. You may not spot the defects if you are not an expert, but if you feel that the heater was not correctly installed, you need to contact a professional to help solve the problems. 

Is a Broken Water Heater an Emergency?

Yes, a broken water heater can be considered an emergency, depending on the severity of the issue. A broken water heater can lead to various problems, including flooding, property damage, and health risks. Here’s a breakdown of why it can be an emergency:

1. Flooding and Property Damage: If a water heater bursts or leaks significantly, it can cause flooding and extensive damage to your home, belongings, and structural elements like walls and floors.
2. Health and Safety Risks: Hot water leaks can cause burns and scalds, particularly if the water temperature is very high. Additionally, stagnant water can lead to mold growth, which can negatively impact indoor air quality and pose health risks.
3. Lack of Hot Water: In colder months or climates, a broken water heater can lead to discomfort, especially if you rely on it for heating your home or for warm water for daily activities.
4. Potential Gas Leaks: If your water heater operates on gas, a malfunction can lead to gas leaks, which are extremely dangerous due to the risk of explosions and fires.
5. Sudden Loss of Water Supply: A burst water heater can cause a sudden loss of water supply in your home, disrupting daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, and bathing.
6. Preventing Further Damage: Addressing the issue promptly can prevent secondary damage, such as mold growth, structural issues, and electrical problems.

How To Fix A Popping Water Heater

A popping noise may mean that there are some mineral deposits at the bottom of the tank. Water below the sediment may steam and bubble up, pushing the residue around and causing some popping noise.

You can flush your water heater using the following steps:

• If you have a gas water heater, turn its control to pilot or turn off the appliance at the circuit breaker if it is electric.
• Cut off the water supply by turning clockwise the cold water ball valve or pulling a cold water lever. (Coldwater lever usually is above the water heater)
• Allow the heating appliance to cool down for a minimum of 30 minutes.
• Attach a garden hose to a drain valve found at the bottom of the water heater tank
• Place the other side of the garden hose at the basement drain or any place that water can quickly draw off to
• Turn over the pressure relief valve at the top of the tank
• Open the drain valve of the water heater using adjustable pliers
• Allow the water to drain out totally.
• Turn on the cold water valve or lever to flush out any remaining mineral deposit
• When you notice that the water running out is clear, close the valve and let it fill your tank
• Turn the water heater on again once the tank is full of water

Final Word

A water heater is a vital device in any home as it makes cleaning, laundry, and showering comfortable. You should ensure that the appliance is always functional and clean to prevent potential explosions, which can be risky.

References:

https://servicemasteroflakeshore.com/water-heater-burst/
https://www.abchomeandcommercial.com/blog/water-heater-burst/