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Hot Water Tank Frequently Asked Questions Answered! Friday, August 20th, 6:35 PM
Top Hot Water Tank FAQs

Winnipeg, Canada - August 20, 2021 / Lynn's HVAC Winnipeg - Plumbing, Heating & Cooling /

Why is my hot water tank making noise?

Sediment accumulation in the bottom of the hot water tank is the most common reason for a noisy water heater. The noise is caused by the bubbling of hot water up through the sediment in the bottom of the tank. A popping sound is produced once this occurs.

Hot Water Tank

Here are two ways to effectively deal with the problem:

 

–    Install a water softener in your home. The softener will help get rid of any sediment buildup in your tank.

 

Rusty tank outside on roof–    Flush out your hot water tank periodically. Flushing the sediment out of the tank is as simple as emptying it, opening the cold water intake, and filling the tank halfway while allowing the steam of water to rinse the sediment from inside the tank. Next, empty the water through the drain valve and repeat the process until you can no longer see any signs of sediment left in the tank.

 

You need to ensure that the sediment buildup is kept in check since it may lead to bigger problems in the future. Perhaps the most serious of these problems is the bottom of the tank rusting thus causing a leak, which is usually indicated by a rumbling sound. Once your tank starts leaking, replacing it is usually the only viable option.

 

Where do I find my hot water tank thermostat?

 

The hot water tank thermostat on both electric water heaters and gas water heaters is found on the exterior of the unit behind the panels with the controls for temperature. The electric heater has two thermostats, one of which is located at the top section of the unit while the other one is found close to the bottom of the unit. The gas water heater, on the other hand, has just one thermostat, which is located at the bottom section of the unit.

 

Can hot water tanks explode?

The simple answer to the question is yes, water tanks can explode.

If you set the temperature too high or your water heater’s pressure relief valve malfunctions, it is possible for your water tank to explode. It can happen with either an electric or gas water heater. A pressure relief valve can malfunction if there’s a blockage in the pipe or the pressure is otherwise unable to release.

 

Water in a hot water tank turns into gas as it is heated up. Once the pressure and heat become too much for the tank to withstand, it attempts to release the pressure via the pressure relief valve. If the valve malfunctions or is blocked, the internal pressure will grow until the tank eventually explodes.

 

It is always advisable to check the pressure relief valve on your hot water tank to ensure that it’s in proper working condition. If you suspect that your water heater isn’t functioning properly, you should have a professional come take a look at it.

 

The best way to prevent your hot water tank from exploding is to set the temperature no higher than the manufacturer’s suggested setting.

 

Can hot water tanks leak carbon monoxide?

Handyman Project To Disassemble Hot Water Heater 10Carbon monoxide leaks are a problem typically associated with gas water heaters. If your gas water heater is poorly vented, improperly installed, or neglected, it may leak carbon dioxide, which can be downright deadly.

 Rusty Hot Water Tank

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a toxic gas that’s both colorless and odorless, which is why it is so hard to detect by the human nose. It is so toxic that inhaling even a small amount of the gas can lead to serious illness if not death.

To ensure that you aren’t the victim of carbon monoxide poisoning, install carbon monoxide alarms and ensure that they are properly maintained. You should also have a professional inspect your indoor gas pipes and check the ventilation for you.

 

Why is my hot water tank leaking or dripping?

A dripping or leaking hot water tank can be scary for most homeowners. Not only might a leaking tank lead to unexpected repairs, but a hot water tank is also a dangerous appliance to have a malfunction. Here are some of the common reasons why your hot water tank is leaking or dripping:

 

–    Corrosion: Your hot water tank may develop corrosion that eventually leads to a leak. If it ever comes to that, you will have to replace your hot water tank.

 

–    Pipes Leading into or out of the Tank: Pipes regularly develop leaks, particularly on the joints where two pipes are connected. If that’s the case, you can find evidence of corrosion on the pipes.

 

–    Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve: The TPR valve plays an important role since it releases pressure from inside your hot water tank to ensure that it doesn’t explode. If the TPR valve is faulty, it may start leaking and when this happens, it requires immediate replacement.

 

–    Heater Drain Valve: The drain valve is located close to the tank’s bottom and may leak if it is faulty or the seal has been compromised by a buildup of sediment.

 

–    Condensation: In some instances, condensation from the tank or nearby pipes may simulate the appearance of a leak. If condensation is the problem, it will be closely linked to the room’s humidity and temperature.

If your water tank is leaking, you need to call in a professional plumber to come to fix it. A leak is a serious problem that should be addressed immediately if you don’t like the idea of incurring massive costs replacing your hot water tank.

 

Do gas hot water tanks require electricity?

 

Gas water heaters are quite a popular choice for many homeowners. Modern gas water heaters are not only very efficient but also very safe. While gas water heaters use natural gas as the primary fuel source, some use electricity to get the pilot light burning. The piezoelectric starter produces a spark that ignites the natural gas to heat the water in the tank.

 

How often do I need to service my hot water tank?

 

hot water tank system winnipegThe average lifespan of a how water tank ranges between 8 and 11 years. So, just like the servicing of a motor vehicle, it makes sense to ensure that your hot water tank is properly maintained. Different manufacturers have different requirements for how regularly their hot water systems should be serviced so that they can keep performing at the optimum and to protect your warranty.

 

Here are the timelines for inspecting and servicing various components of your hot water system:

 

–    Pressure Relief Valve: Every 6 Months

 

–    Expansion Control Valve: Every 6 Months

 

–    Isolation Non-Return Valve: Every 3 to 5 Years

 

–    Pressure Limiting Valve: Every 3 to 5 Years

–    Thermocouple: Every 3 to 5 Years

 

–    Thermostat: Every 3 to 5 Years

 

–    Sacrificial Anode: Every 3 to 5 Years

 

–    Tempering Valve: Every 3 to 5 Years

 

–    Element: Every 3 to 5 Years

 

When should I replace my hot water tank?

 

Hot water tanks eventually break down and require replacement just like any other appliance. Nobody likes taking a cold shower, so, you should ideally replace it before it completely stops working. Here are 3 tell-tale signs that your hot water tank needs replacing:

 

–    Age: Age is a key consideration when determining whether or not your hot water tank needs replacing. Keep track of when you purchased the hot water tank or get the date from the previous owners of the property if you inherited an existing system.

 

–    Leaks: Leaks are always a bad sign when it comes to hot water tanks. You should always check your hot water tank regularly for leaks. The older a hot water tank gets, the higher the chances of it developing problems like leaks.

 

–    Discolored Water: Discolored water is a clear sign that your hot water tank requires immediate attention. Always be on the lookout for tinted or rusted-looking water. Try having the tank flushed by a professional and check the water again. If it is still discolored, it is perhaps time to replace it.

 

How much do hot water tanks cost?

 

The average cost of installation ranges from about $1,000 to $3,000 for a 40-to 50-gallon tank. However, it is important to note that these are just average prices and could be higher or lower depending on your selection.

 

What temperature setting should my hot water tank be at?

 

hot water tank outside in garden winnipegThe proper temperature setting for a hot water tank is a hotly debated topic. If it is set too high, you will find yourself paying the price in your monthly energy bill. On the other hand, if it is set too low, your water may not get hot enough and you may be at risk of growing harmful bacteria.

 

The EPA recommends setting it at 120 degrees since it’s hot enough to keep diseases at bay, but no hot enough to cause scalding. The OSHA recommended level is 140 degrees, which is considered sufficient to kill a rare and specific strain of bacteria that causes a pneumonia-like sickness known as Legionnaires disease.

 Hot Water Tanks Installation

The American Society of Sanitary Engineering recommends setting your hot water tank at between 135 and 140 degrees to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and installing anti-scald devices to prevent hot water injuries.

Of the 3 options, the last one is highly recommended since it is the perfect compromise between EPA and OSHA standards.

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Contact Information:

Lynn's HVAC Winnipeg - Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

837 Dugald Rd
Winnipeg, MB R2J 0G7
Canada

Dallas Friesen
+1 204-817-1595
https://lynnswinnipeg.ca

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