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5 Potential Hazards of DIY Water Heater Repair

5 Potential Hazards of DIY Water Heater Repair

For most people who enjoy taking a warm shower, a water heater is an essential part of life. Especially during the winter season, a steamy bath is something to look forward to.

However, as water heaters are constantly used, they develop problems that can quickly escalate into serious malfunction issues. Instead of consulting professionals, some of us resort to resolving the matter on our own.

Because almost all kinds of information are available online, it can be tempting to rely on the internet for instructions on how to repair a leaking water heater and other technical issues. But if you don’t have the necessary knowledge, skills, and tools, performing a DIY water heater repair may do more harm than good.

Dangers of Do-It-Yourself Water Heater Repair

Hesitating to call a professional and doing a DIY water heater repair to resolve the concern could pose potential hazards which might cause you more harm and expenses.

1. Electric Hazard

A water heater operates at peak capacity using a high-voltage system. In most cases, the need for a water heater repair is the result of busted electric connections or any malfunction in the system.

Trying to perform a DIY water heater repair or replacement can pose the risk of damage beyond repair. Getting electrocuted is just one of the many potential hazards that may arise while doing a DIY water heater repair. In worst cases, an improper repair can put your safety at risk due to potential spark and fire.

2. Toxic Chemicals

DIY water heater repair may look fun at first until you become exposed to hazardous chemicals without being aware of them. A water heater uses specific chemicals to allow the continuous flow of hot water from your faucet or shower head.

This chemical, when not handled properly, can cause severe health problems, and even death. It can also contribute to environmental pollution when released without proper disposal.

To steer clear of this risk, always seek professional help from EPA-certified technicians.

3. High Gas Pressure

The most widely used heating fuel in American homes is natural gas. When a water heater overheats, a highly-inflammable gas is released from it at a high rate which propels the water heater and sends it up to the roof. A gas explosion due to high pressure can result in irreversible damage to your property.

If you need a water heater repair, you should never resort to doing it yourself. Call a heating technician who’s skilled in handling water heater gas lines with precaution to avoid potential fire accidents and explosions.

4. Boiling Water

Scalding hot water that comes out of any plumbing outlet may be the result of:

  • defective thermostat
  • old temperature and pressure relief (TPR) valve
  • dirty heating elements

Knowing the reasons is not enough for you to attempt DIY water heater repair. If you don’t want to spend on an expensive replacement, call on Absolute Electrical Heating and Air to diagnose the problem of your water heater.

5. Invalid Service Warranty

While water heater companies often provide a warranty for heater elements, repair or labor replacement, damage that happens due to your own mistake may not be covered by their service warranty. You may need to pay the full price during such instances. Aside from this, medical expenses for injuries attained in your dwelling are also beyond the scope of warranty terms.

Who to Call for Water Heater Repair?

While fixing a broken unit yourself can save you repair costs, provide a quick solution, and satisfy your inner handyman, improper techniques not only jeopardize your heater but can also put your safety at risk.

Are you wondering who to call for water heater repair? Absolute Electrical Heating and Air is the handyman who can best address your water heater problem.

Remember that only experts know the ins and outs of a water heater and other plumbing equipment. They have an understanding of the functions of each part and can provide appropriate solutions to problems that plague these parts. They are trained in all aspects of water heater repair from electrical wiring, piping, gas lines to heating elements.

Instead of resorting to DIY water heater repair, call on Absolute Electrical Heating and Air when any of the warning signs occur with your water heater:

  • whistling noises or other unusual noises coming from the water heater
  • rusty water flowing out from water heater outlets
  • low water pressure for hot water
  • no hot water even without water supply interruptions
  • water leaking from the heating system
  • faulty pilot light for heating system which uses natural gas

Hire a Qualified Water Heater Repair Expert

Taking the do-it-yourself router of repairing or replacing the water heater can pose risks on your health and safety.

There are dangers involved in water heaters and any other plumbing repair. The best way to deal with faulty plumbing is by calling a professional. If you are looking for top-notch plumbing experts, look no further than Absolute Electrical Heating and Air.

Absolute Electrical Heating and Air is your partner in water heater repair and other plumbing needs in Aurora, CO. We provide quick, safe, and permanent solutions to various plumbing problems both in commercial and residential property. Stay safe and give us a call!

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