Signs Your Water Heater Is About To Explode

Winters are that one time of the year when people think of restarting their water heaters as warm baths are a necessity of the season. Many people have these water heaters installed in their homes for easy access and convenience.

However, it is surprising how many people aren’t aware of the damage water heaters can cause when left unattended or unmaintained. Explosions or fires caused by water heaters can cause grave damage to the property and its surroundings.

If you have any concerns related to the water heater installed on your property, click here or call 847-673-3045 to get a free estimate amount on any repairs you need today. 

1. Valve Leakage

The pressure relief valve situated inside the water heater is supposed to regulate the temperature and keep it average. A leak in this valve means that the hot water temperature is too high for the valve to bear, leading to an explosion. 

2. Improper Functioning Of The Valve

The pressure relief valve is designed to function in a specific manner to preserve the hot water temperature and to allow cool air from outside to mix with the hot water to keep the temperature standard. This happens when the valve opens, and cold air regulates the moisture and temperature inside. The failure to open or close the valve can accelerate the temperature to a level that the water heater cannot bear.

3. Noises

Water tanks need to be maintained and flushed regularly to allow layers of water elements to pass away. Now, failure to do so builds layers inside the water heater, preventing the temperature from changing. These water elements can also cause a clog in the water tank, leading to either not opening or not closing the pressure relief valve. In this situation, the temperature inside the water heater is unable to change, and if it gets too high, it could lead to an explosion.

4. Change In Water Color

A change in the water’s color indicates rusting material inside the water tank or the water heater. Brown water from household taps shows a clogged-up water tank, which can cause the water heater to explode. 

5. Gas Leak

A gas leak is the most dangerous sign to remember. The slight hint of fire near the gas can cause the entire house to explode.

The odor of rotten eggs from your water heater means there is a gas leak. There are several reasons behind a gas leak, like improper installation and maintenance, power outage, and gas pipeline issues.

How Do I Stop it From Exploding?

Preventing a water heater explosion is crucial for the safety of your home and family. Regular maintenance, proper installation, and early detection of issues can significantly reduce the risk. Here are some key steps to keep your water heater in optimal condition:

• Regular Inspections – Schedule professional inspections at least once a year to check for leaks, rust buildup, and faulty pressure relief valves.
• Flush the Tank – Over time, sediment accumulates inside water tanks, leading to pressure buildup. Flushing the tank every six months removes these deposits and ensures proper function.
• Monitor Water Temperature – Keeping the water temperature below 120°F prevents overheating and excessive pressure inside the heater.
• Check for Gas Leaks – If you notice a rotten egg smell around your water heater, turn off the gas supply immediately and contact a professional to inspect for leaks. If the smell isn’t coming from the heater, it could be due to sulfur bacteria buildup in your shower drains or water pipes.
• Replace Old Units – If your water heater is more than 10-15 years old, consider replacing it before components fail, increasing the risk of a burst. Additionally, outdated or corroded plumbing can contribute to water quality issues and pressure inconsistencies—if your home has aging pipes, consider a lead water line replacement to improve overall system safety.

By following these preventive measures, you can extend the lifespan of your water heater and reduce the likelihood of hazardous malfunctions.

How Often Do Water Heaters Explode?

While water heater explosions are rare, they can happen if maintenance is neglected. The frequency of such incidents depends on several factors, including the age of the heater, water quality, and regular upkeep.

A well-maintained water heater is unlikely to explode, but ignoring warning signs—such as leaking valves, rust buildup, unusual noises, and gas smells (rotten eggs)—increases the risk. The most common causes of explosions include:

• Excessive Pressure – A failing pressure relief valve can allow dangerous levels of steam and pressure to build up, causing the heater to explode.
• Gas Leaks – A small spark near a leaking gas line can trigger a massive explosion.
• Corrosion & Rust Buildup – When metal components weaken due to rust buildup, the structural integrity of the heater is compromised, making it more prone to bursting.
• Overheating & Sediment Buildup – Without regular flushing, sediment buildup insulates the bottom of the heater, forcing it to overheat. This can eventually lead to water tank failure.

Although explosions are not frequent, the consequences can be devastating. Homeowners should take early warning signs seriously and invest in proper maintenance to avoid property damage and personal injury.

Do not treat these signs as a joke to save a few bucks. Your safety and property are more precious than money. If you detect any of the signs mentioned above, click here or call 847-673-3045 to get a free estimate amount on any repairs you may need.

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