Did you know that a poorly maintained water heater can easily turn into a ticking time bomb? Water-heater explosions are a relatively rare occurrence, but the potential for such a catastrophic event is always there, especially for water heaters suffering from lax maintenance or corrosion issues. Fortunately, you can prevent water-heater explosions from happening thanks to these relatively simple yet crucial tips.

Tip #1: Keep Your Water Heater Deposit Free

Calcium, lime deposit, and sediment buildup can create hot spots throughout your water-heater tank, leading to boiler kettling and excess pressure buildup. To keep this from happening, you should always have your water-heater tank drained and flushed on a yearly basis. You should also check and, if necessary, replace the water heater's sacrificial anode rod to prevent rust and corrosion within the tank.

Tip #2: Avoid Excess Water Temperatures

Not only can excess water temperatures cause severe burns in only a matter of seconds, but it can also put your water heater at greater risk of an explosion. Make sure your hot-water temperatures are set no higher than 125 degrees Fahrenheit, especially if you have small children in your household.

Tip #3: Keep an Eye on Your Gas Lines

It's not just your water heater that could explode. If your water heater relies on natural gas or propane, a gas-line leak can be just as devastating. If you suspect there's a gas leak near your water heater, immediately leave your home and contact your local gas company's emergency line to have a professional correct the problem.

Tip #4: Replace the PT Relief Valve Every Three Years

Most conventional water heaters come equipped with a pressure and temperature (PT) relief valve. This device helps bleed off excess pressure, preventing your water heater from building up excess pressures that could cause it to explode. Rust and corrosion can cause this crucial valve to seize up and stop working, so it's important to manually test the lever on a yearly basis and have the valve replaced every three years.

Tip #5: Have Your Water Heater Professionally Inspected

A professional inspection is absolutely essential for keeping your water heater in great shape. A seasoned technician can easily spot potential problems that ordinary homeowners might miss. Your water-heater expert may also suggest changes that can help your water heater operate more safely and efficiently.

These tips can help keep you and your family out of harm's way when it comes to operating your water heater. Talk to a company such as R & B Inc Heating & Air Conditioning to learn more.