What are the dangers of having a hot water leak in an apartment with electric hot water heaters?

by Water Heaters on May 5, 2010

i heard the hot water tank could blow through the roof if left unattendsed is this true?


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{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }

barney9651 May 5, 2010 at 5:45 am

The tank will never blow through the roof. However, it wouldn’t hurt to have a serviceman check it out once it’s 5 years old or so, as they have an average lifespan of about 7 years and can go at any time, leaking water into the house. A little maintenance and inspection can be inexpensive and a wise investment in the long run.

Willy r May 5, 2010 at 5:45 am

no the tank will not blow through the roof that is what the relief Valve is for water can cause damage but this situation is no more dangerous with electric than any other heat source as long as its not running on the wires the danger is of getting electrocuted if thats the case

Rick May 5, 2010 at 5:45 am

Why not fix it instead of worrying about myths. They have a pressure valve mounted midway on side of heater and would release pressure there before "blowing" up. Where is leak coming from bottom? Or the pressure valve? It is suppose to have a drain line running from the valve into a drain in case of leaking but not all have it, if it does grab with hand midway down and if line is hot it is bad and will need replaced. I am wondering if its electric or gas.

Nightowl56 May 5, 2010 at 5:45 am

Mythbusters did a show on this; as long as the relief valve works you won’t put the heater in orbit. But you do need to have it serviced if it’s leaking.

phillip p May 5, 2010 at 5:45 am

No, I have been doing apartment maintenance for 21 years, you have what is called a T.P valve or called a pop off. that will release hot water when the press. get to high it will be on the top or side of the tank.

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