Hot Water Heater

A water heater can become an explosive device without proper maintenance.
Water heaters should always be readily accessible so that gas and water can be shut off easily in the event of an emergency.
Thermostat settings are never changed at the time of the inspection, even when apparently set too high. Gas and water shutoff valves are not tested, and electric circuit breakers are not turned on (click here for helpful information concerning shutoff valves and circuit breakers).
Water heaters constantly operating at higher temperatures than suggested by manufacturer can be expected to have a shorter life span, and excessively hot water can cause personal injury and death from scalding and burns, particularly for elderly and children. Recommend maintaining thermostat setting at manufacturer’s recommended setting, typically indicated on the control knob. If hot water production is not satisfactory, consult with a qualified plumbing professional. Lower temperatures will also help conserve energy and save money by lowering utility costs.

Actual recovery rate stated or calculated may be higher or lower. (The recovery rate is the number of gallons that can be heated to 100°F in one hour.)

Water heaters typically come with plastic drains, which typically fail upon first use; if a plastic drain is installed, be prepared to buy a metal drain at the time the water heater is first drained for maintenance.
The temperature and pressure relief valve (TPR valve) is a safety device, and when it operates, it typically indicates a problem with the water heater, usually water temperature or w

Water Heater bonding

ater pressure that is too high and dangerous. When the drain pipe terminates at an exterior location, an unknown location, or a drain or sink, it is difficult to determine whether or not the TPR valve has operated since any water that has been discharged is not seen because it evaporated, was absorbed by the ground, or was drained away. Typical recommendation is to place a 5-gallon pail under the drain pipe termination point and monitor the pail regularly to detect whether or not water has been discharged. If you cannot monitor the drain pipe regularly, recommend annual maintenance by a qualified plumbing professional.

Drain pipes should not terminate in foundation crawl spaces since moisture can cause damage to structural and mechanical components in the crawl space. If Client suspects that a TPR valve has operated, a qualified plumber should be consulted immediately.

If your water heater becomes noisy, it typically means that there has been a build-up of sediment in the storage tank. This probably typically can be resolved by draining and refilling the water heater. Water heaters should not be drained to the storm sewers; rather, drain them to your public sewer system or use the water to water plants and vegetation around your home. Installing a water modification system will also help prevent future sediment build-up in the tank.

Jumper bonding (see Figure 1) typically is not present at the water heater. The water heater and metal water pipes typically serve as part of the continuous grounding of the electrical system. The hot and cold water supply pipes above the water heater should be connected by a properly-sized wire to continue to provide such electrical grounding in the event the water heater must be removed. Replacement of a water heater should always be done by qualified professionals.

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