The water heater is often the most misunderstood appliance in a home. One misunderstanding is how pressure affects the tank. This is actually more important than people think because too much pressure could force the unit to explode. Pressure builds up as the water heats and is usually released when a hot water valve opens. When the tank sits for extended periods, excess pressure can occur. This problem is resolved by placing a pressure release valve in the tank. This safety device is one of the more important Water Heater Repairs in Charlotte NC needed and should be tested at least once a year.
Surprisingly, many homeowners don’t give the water heater much consideration, at least until it fails. One reason for this may be the location of the tank. Common installation areas are the garage, an attic, or even in an exterior building. In this case, out of sight really does mean out of mind. Unfortunately, this can cause some dire concerns when a leak develops, especially if that leak is at the top of the tank or in the pipes. Spraying water can do a lot of damage to walls, but pooling water on the floor could ruin the floor and the studs that support the walls. Other areas where leaks occur include the seams of a gas-burning system or the tank.
Tank damage occurs over time as the metal expands and contracts. When the system uses a burning flame to transfer heat through the base of the tank, it stresses the metal even more. Eventually, the unit will require Water Heater Repairs Charlotte NC, when internal pressure forces a rupture.
If the water heater is an electric model, then the heating system uses one or two elements and matching thermostats. Two tends to be the most common option because it provides the fastest way to heat large quantities of water. The most common failure is a shorted element, which may leave the system nonfunctional. This problem can also cause another, more dangerous, issue where the short actually causes parts of the element to continuously operate. Preventing the water from getting too hot requires a safety switch that completely breaks the circuit. This particular problem may not be realized until scalding water flows from the faucet and someone gets burned. Contact All About the Pipes Plumbing for more information.
