Are you sitting on a ticking bomb?

Because of built in safety devices most hot water systems safely operate day in, day out without any major problems.

But don't let the excellent safety record of your hot water system lull you into forgetting about the explosive potential of these marvels of convenience.  

How can I tell if my hot water system is at risk of exploding?

Most hot water systems operate safely 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Here are some simple guidelines and warnings for hot water system safety:

• If it's been more than a year since your Temperature - Pressure (T & P) relief valve has been tested you should test it.
• T & P valves are mechanical devices which means that they can fail or clog.
• This device is your last line of defense in case of a thermostat failure resulting in overheating of your tank.
• It does not matter how old your water heater is.
• Sputtering and spewing from your taps as you turn them on could be a sign of your hot water system is overheating. This is especially true if the water heater has been sitting idle for a while. The spewing/sputtering can occur on when you turn on either your hot or cold taps.
• Excessively hot water is a sign of a thermostat malfunction, a precursor to excessive pressure build up.
• A dripping or trickling T&P valve can mean that your water heater is overheating or over pressure.

What made the water heater explode in the videos? 


As water heats, it expands which results in a pressure increase. 

The water temperature increases to about 400 degrees.

When a tank ruptures, the water erupts into a steam explosion.

These are the same conditions that could exist if your thermostat became stuck "on" and your T&P was faulty.


Speak to a plumber now about your hot water system safety on 1300 166 342

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