Your water heater is one of the most important items in your home. Without it, you can’t wash dishes, take a warm shower or perform other tasks requiring warm or hot water.
A faulty water heater can create significant problems for your home. Let’s take a look at some good reasons to monitor and maintain your water heater at all times.
It Can Cost Hundreds of Dollars to Get a New Water Heater
Replacing your water heater can cost hundreds of dollars even if you are buying a basic unit. If you need a heater that holds more than 40 gallons, you could pay thousands of dollars for a replacement.
While it may be possible to finance the purchase, it can still come as a shock to those who weren’t aware there was a problem.
Proper Maintenance Keeps Your Warranty Intact
If you have a warranty on your water heater, keeping a close eye on it could keep the warranty from being voided by the manufacturer. Generally speaking, a warranty is only good for repairs that aren’t caused by owner negligence.
Allowing mold to grow or the pilot light to consistently go out may be examples of negligence.
Don’t File an Unnecessary Homeowners Insurance Claim
One of the signs that a water heater isn’t working properly is a leak from the water drum itself. Once such leakage occurs, the product needs to be replaced.
If a leak goes unnoticed, it could result in several inches of water in your basement, which can cause secondary problems such as mold. Ideally, you will have a plumber come take a look at this component at the first sign of trouble.
Water Pressure Can Lead to Damage
Over time, as water is heated, pressure begins to build within your water tank. However, a safety valve has been put in place to help release some of the built up pressure.
If your safety relief valve is leaking or faulty, it will fail to work as expected and allow the pressure mount until the tank eventually collapses.
A Gas Leak Is a Cause for Serious Concern
Any gas leak in your home can result in anyone who lives there getting sick. It is also possible that the leak could cause an explosion that damages your basement and other parts of the house.
If too much pressure builds up in the water heater itself, it can fly straight up and out of the home. In the event that it lands in another person’s property, you could be liable for any damage caused.
A water heater that is not cared for could cause a significant headache for a homeowner or landlord. If you have any questions about maintaining one, call the manufacturer or visit the manufacturer’s website to learn more.
As parents we have a responsibility to be prepared for life’s curveballs. A broken water heater could classify as one of those curveballs. Yet how many of us have emergency funds?
For many reasons, you may have abandoned your efforts to save some money for unexpected situations. Get tips on how to build an emergency fund.
