Most likely ,I may know the answer to this , but I am wondering specifically ....because in the area I live there are 1970's and newer mobile homes , here. Also I just replaced my gas water heater , about a year and a half ago. I have had no problems and I drain (every 6 mths ,the build up , that is) and check for leaks and such. Any help would be appreciated.
2007-12-28 06:17:02 · 6 answers · asked by Vi 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
I was just wondering because the area in which I live ...there have been at least 4 reports of fire caused by gas water heaters. I'm not saying that my water heater IS in danger . .( I really don't get the last reply that I got)
2007-12-28 06:36:36 · update #1
Explosion caused by faulty pressure release valve. Fire caused by combustibles too close to the flue.
2007-12-28 06:30:29 · answer #1 · answered by shazaamazam 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
USA Water heaters explode when the pressure of the water inside increases so much that the water heater tank (on the inside of the unit) can't handle it and it explodes. To prevent this from happening, a temperature-pressure relief valve is installed on the water heater. Ask a plumber to make sure your water heater has one, and ask him to show you how to check to make sure it works (this is easy and should be done annually). If your heater has a working temperature-pressure relief valve, the chances of an explosion are less than getting hit by an asteroid. Draining the sludge out of the unit is excellent preventive maintenance, adds to the life of the unit and actually helps keep the operational cost down (because you are not heating the sludge).
Regarding fire, the most likely cause would be a gas leak. If you DO NOT smell any gas in the vicinity of the heater, you are probably ok (provided your nose works). If you smell gas, call a licensed plumber. Gas plus a spark or flame equals fire.
Checking for leaks, both water and gas, should be done monthly.
2007-12-28 22:17:20 · answer #2 · answered by Dave 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Gas leaks since the hot water heaters in most mobile homes are in enclosed areas. Gas build up from the leak then when it comes on the flame causes the explosion and fire.
Pressure relief not working on hot water heater and it getting too hot causing the water to turn to steam will also blow a hot water heater if the thermostat fails.
All I can say about hot water heaters and mobile homes is to not use gas hot water heaters. Use electric hot water heaters instead.
And any homes made better in the sixties and seventies check the wiring. If it is wired with Aluminum wire junk it fast and get another one.
2007-12-29 14:49:44 · answer #3 · answered by JUAN FRAN$$$ 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Explosions: Faulty safety relief valves, fault gas piping leading to an accumulation of an explosive mixture.
Fires:Flammable material too close to the firebox or chimney or faulty gas piping leading to a leak of gas that catches fire.
One other possibility that is more common in older homes with heaters in the garage is vapors from a can of gasoline reaching the water heater burner. Newer homes have the water heater elevated to minimize the problem or the heater is located in another part of the house.
2007-12-28 15:15:28 · answer #4 · answered by oil field trash 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I agree with all these including if you have a blown out pilot light if the flame is out than you can get a build up of gas that can fill up a room and any spark can set it off , but very unlikely they have a sheild over the pilot light
2007-12-28 22:24:04 · answer #5 · answered by mark h 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
this is scary. i would call in a pro on this and real soon for the safety of you and your family. it could be a gas leak that builds up in the tiny room where the heater sits, then when the heater lites it ignites the built up gas. PLEASE CALL THE PRO'S TO CHECK THIS OUT VERY SOON. GOOD LUCK.
2007-12-28 14:31:32 · answer #6 · answered by Mickey Mouse 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋