Water Heater Explosions

Water heaters are one of the many things that can be hazardous inside homes and buildings. Water heaters use electricity to warm water above its normal temperature which is then generally used for cooking, cleaning, or bathing.

While there are several different types of water heaters including electric tank-less water heaters but most commonly storage, or tank-type, water heaters are used in North America. These types of heaters are powered by a variety of power sources, which can include electricity, gas, solar power, propane, or other energy sources.

According to a 2010 study by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) water heaters were responsible for approximately 5,800 home structure fires which resulted in 80 deaths and 210 injuries. These fires also accounted for $104 million worth of property damage.

From 2006 to 2010 water heaters accounted for 11% of all home heating fires and 7% of home heating fire deaths.

If you or anyone you know has had property damaged by a water heater explosion, that individual may be eligible for compensation to cover property damage. Our insurance claims lawyers can help anyone seeking legal guidance over a water heater explosion.

To get a free review of your case, simply fill out the ‘FREE CASE REVIEW’ form to your right to get started on your claim right away.

Water Heater Explosion Causes

The reason for a water heater explosion varies, but primarily it is caused by excessive heat. When the tank water gets heated too much it creates steam which then creates pressure inside the tank. Steam tends to take up more space thus quickly filling up the tank. There are also other factors that can cause this blast, such as:

Ill-fitted Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
The temperature and pressure relief valve is supposed to help the heater release high pressure or temperatures. Ill-fitted or damaged valves can cause the pressure and temperature to mount up and cause an explosion.

Corrosion
Tank deterioration can also cause the temperature and pressure to build up leading to a blast, however, it can also cause the heater to break and flood your home.

Leaks
Whether it is an old heater or valve leaking, either could spell trouble if it is not fixed immediately. Leaks are also another way to flood your home. According to the NFPA 8% of fires from 2006 to 2010 were caused by water heater leaks or breaks.

Heater Installed Too Close to Combustibles
According to the NFPA the majority of water heater fires were caused by combustibles being placed too closely to the heat source.

Other water heater fires may be attributed to mechanical or electrical failures, a worn out heater, and even unclean water heaters.

Preventing Water Heater Explosions

Water heater explosions are preventable and whether you own or rent a home it’s important to keep yourself and those in the home safe. It’s recommended that water heaters be checked yearly which can be done by a professional or yourself so long as you read the water heater manual.

Most notably a warning sign is if the water is much hotter than usual and there is steam coming out of your hot water faucet, also check for leaks, corrosion, and further damage. Depending on the make and model some water heaters may last up to 15 years so it’s important to check yours annually and how often it should be exchanged for a new one.

Contact a Water Heater Explosion Attorney

If you or a loved one had property damaged by a water heater explosion and are seeking legal representation, our knowledgeable insurance claims attorneys may be able to help you.

Water heaters can cause large amounts of property damage and an explosion can ruin someone’s entire home. If you have been denied insurance claims over a water heater explosion, the Arguello Law Firm are ready to fight for your rights. Our main office is located in Houston, TX but we are also proud to assist clients in the surrounding areas:

• Riverside Terrace
• Hyde Park
• Houston Heights
• Clinton Park
• ..and many more

Our lawyers are dedicated to fighting for those who deserve justice, contact us at 1-888-CLAIM-68 (1-888-252-4668) to get connected with one of our insurance claims lawyers.

We can also be contacted online, simply fill out the ‘FREE CASE REVIEW’ form at the top right hand corner of this page to get your case reviewed immediately – it’s 100% free and confidential.