Signs Your Water Heater Is Going to Explode: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know

Your water heater is one of those household appliances that you probably don’t think about much – until something goes wrong. And trust us, when it comes to water heaters, “something going wrong” can be catastrophic.

Water heaters can explode if not properly maintained, causing serious damage to your home and putting your family’s safety at risk. In this article, we’ll discuss the top signs that your water heater might be on the verge of exploding and what you can do to prevent a catastrophe.

What Causes a Water Heater to Explode?

First things first: let’s talk about what can cause a water heater to explode. The main culprit is usually a buildup of pressure inside the tank. This can happen for a few reasons:

1. Sediment accumulation: Over time, minerals in your water can settle at the bottom of the tank, creating a layer of sediment. This sediment can trap heat, causing the water to overheat and the pressure to increase.
2. Faulty temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve): This valve is designed to release excess pressure from the tank. If it’s not working properly, pressure can build up unchecked.
3. Corrosion: As your water heater ages, the tank can start to corrode, weakening the walls and making them more susceptible to leaks and ruptures.

When the pressure inside the tank gets too high, it can cause the tank to explode, sending shards of metal and scalding hot water flying.

Top Signs Your Water Heater Might Explode

1. Leaking or Faulty Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve

One of the most critical components of your water heater is the temperature and pressure relief valve, or T&P valve. This valve is usually located on the top or side of the tank, and it has a small lever or handle. Its job is to release excess pressure from the tank if it gets too high.

If you notice any leaking or dripping from the T&P valve, that’s a sign that it’s not working correctly. You might also hear a hissing sound as the valve tries to release pressure. Don’t ignore these warnings – a faulty T&P valve can allow pressure to build up in the tank, increasing the risk of an explosion.

2. Rotten Egg Smell Near Your Water Heater

If you notice a distinct smell of rotten eggs around your water heater, that’s a major red flag. This odor is caused by hydrogen sulfide gas, which can be produced by bacteria in the tank. More importantly, though, it can also indicate a gas leak.

Natural gas and propane are odorless, so utility companies add a harmless chemical called mercaptan to give them that telltale rotten egg smell. If you smell rotten eggs near your water heater, there’s a good chance you have a gas leak. This is a serious safety hazard, as the gas can build up and lead to an explosion.

If you suspect a gas leak, don’t try to investigate it yourself. Get everyone out of the house immediately, and call your gas company or 911 from a safe location.

3. Popping, Cracking, or Rumbling Noises

Another warning sign to listen for is unusual noises coming from your water heater. If you hear popping, cracking, or rumbling sounds, it’s often due to sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank.

As we mentioned earlier, sediment can trap heat and cause the water to overheat. When this happens, the water can start to boil, causing the sediment to harden and form a thick layer at the bottom of the tank. This layer can then trap even more heat, creating a vicious cycle.

As the water heats up and tries to escape through the sediment layer, it can cause those popping or rumbling noises. This is a sign that your water heater is overworking and under a lot of stress, which increases the risk of an explosion.

4. Brown or Rusty Water Coming from Taps

If you turn on your hot water and notice that it’s a brownish or rusty color, that’s a cause for concern. This discoloration is usually caused by corrosion inside the water heater tank.

As the inside of the tank starts to rust, that rust can break off and mix with the water, giving it that brown tint. While a small amount of rust in your water isn’t necessarily dangerous to your health, it’s a sign that your water heater is deteriorating.

A corroded tank is a weakened tank, and a weakened tank is more likely to develop leaks or even rupture under pressure. If you’re seeing brown water, it’s time to have your water heater inspected by a professional.

5. Inconsistent or Insufficient Hot Water Supply

Have you noticed that your hot water seems to be running out faster than usual, or that it’s not getting as hot as it used to? These could be signs that your water heater is struggling to do its job.

There are a few reasons this might happen. One possibility is that your heating elements are failing. Most water heaters have two heating elements, one at the bottom and one at the top. If one or both of these elements burn out, your water heater won’t be able to heat the water effectively.

Another possibility is that sediment buildup is insulating the heating elements, preventing them from efficiently transferring heat to the water. This makes your water heater work harder and longer to get the water up to temperature, putting extra strain on the system.

If your water heater is struggling to keep up with your hot water needs, it’s working overtime – and that added stress increases the risk of a failure or even an explosion.

6. Visible Corrosion or Damage to the Water Heater Tank

Finally, take a moment to visually inspect your water heater tank. If you see any signs of corrosion, such as rust or flaking metal, that’s a red flag.

Corrosion can weaken the structural integrity of the tank, making it more prone to leaks and ruptures. It can also indicate that there are other issues at play, such as sediment buildup or a failing anode rod (which helps protect the tank from corrosion).

If you spot any visible damage to your water heater tank, don’t ignore it. A small problem can quickly turn into a big one if left unchecked.

The Best Way to Prevent Water Heater Explosions

Prevention is always better than cure. Take these three steps to prevent a water heater explosion in your home:

1. Regular Maintenance and Inspection — The best way to prevent a water heater explosion is through regular maintenance and inspection. We recommend having a professional plumber check your water heater at least once a year.
2. Proper Installation and Settings — If you’re installing a new water heater, make sure it’s done by a qualified technician. They’ll ensure that the temperature and pressure settings are correct and that the unit is properly sized for your home’s needs.
3. Timely Repairs and Replacements — Water heaters don’t last forever. Most units have a lifespan of about 8-12 years, depending on factors like water quality and maintenance. If your water heater is reaching the end of its life or if you notice any of the warning signs we discussed, don’t put off repairs or replacement.

Regular maintenance, proper installation, and timely repairs are the keys to preventing water heater explosions. If you notice any warning signs, don’t hesitate to call the pros at YOLO Plumbing for help.

What to Do If You Suspect Your Water Heater Is Going to Explode

If you notice any of the warning signs we’ve covered and believe your water heater is at risk of exploding, it’s important to act fast:

1. Shut off the gas or electricity: If you have a gas water heater, locate the shut-off valve on the gas line and turn it to the “off” position. For an electric water heater, switch off the corresponding circuit breaker in your electrical panel.
2. Evacuate the area: Get everyone, including pets, out of the house immediately. Don’t stop to gather belongings – your safety is the top priority.
3. Call a professional: Once you’re safely outside, call a licensed plumber or your utility company for assistance. Don’t attempt to investigate or repair the water heater yourself, as this can be extremely dangerous.

Remember, a potential water heater explosion is a serious emergency. Don’t hesitate to call 911 if you feel unsafe or if you suspect a gas leak.

If you’re unsure about the state of your water heater, or if you need help with maintenance or repairs, don’t hesitate to call in the pros. At YOLO Plumbing, we’re always here to help keep your home’s plumbing system safe and efficient.

And if you need expert advice or service for your water heater, give us a call. We’re committed to helping you keep your home safe and your hot water flowing. Don’t wait until it’s too late – reach out today and let us help you protect your home and family