How many times have you come home and turned on the hot water to rejuvenate and soak all the troubles and worries away? All this abundant hot water and comfort stem from one crucial civilizational achievement—the water heater. Since it plays such a big role in our everyday lives, from soothing hot showers to washing dishes and other daily tasks, when the water heater breaks down, the inconvenience is immediate.
While this may tempt you to try to apply a quick fix and deal with the issues on your own, we can’t stress enough that fixing the water heater is NOT a DIY opportunity. Besides the risk of elevated costs and potential gas leaks, there is a real danger of electrocution because water and electricity don’t mix well. Today we explain why fixing the water heater should always be left to proven plumbing companies in Carmel Valley and their trained and experienced team of professional technicians.
Should you fix your own water heater?
Simply put, no, you should never try to fix the water heater on your own. There are numerous ways in which DIY water heater repair can go wrong and most of them lead to serious consequences and, in worst-case scenarios, life-threatening situations. Let’s take a look at 5 main reasons why the risks of DIY water heater fixes far outweigh the benefits.
1. Lack of proper tools & expertise
Let’s start with the obvious reasons and the first one would be the lack of nous and quality equipment. Water heaters are complex systems, packed in small casing and made up of numerous components. To adequately get to the bottom of the task at hand, you’ll need to measure electrical currents, inspect for potential gas leaks, test pressure levels within the tank, and a whole host of other moves that require professional tools and know-how.
2. Voiding your warranty
Let’s for a moment assume that you have the first issue covered and you manage to fix the water heater on your own. Even this can prove a bad decision because modern water heaters come with a manufacturer’s warranty. The warranty usually covers repairs and replacement parts but only under specific conditions. One of the conditions is that any attempt to tamper with the water heater by an individual who’s not properly licensed will void the coverage.
3. Water damage & leaks
An obvious issue with DIY water heater repair is the significant danger of water damage to your home. If you reinstall the seal or gasket incorrectly, water will leak and potentially flood or damage your flooring, walls, and adjacent furniture. If the pipes aren’t connected properly, you run the risk of mold growth and even greater structural damage to your home.
4. Electrical & gas hazards
Modern water heaters usually run on electricity or gas. Both of these can be extremely dangerous when handled inappropriately by persons who lack professional expertise. With electric water heaters, you run the risk of electrical shock, short circuits, and fires. On the other hand, with gas models, the dangers are even greater. Even the smallest error can lead to a gas leak and risk of explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning. Even if you do most things right, a small gas leak can lead to long-term hazards you definitely want to avoid.
5. Local building codes
Since their mishandling can lead to deadly outcomes and dangerous explosions, water heaters are subject to local building codes and regulations that are designed to ensure proper handling and safety. In most areas of California, replacing and repairing a water heater requires a permit and adherence to certain standards. If you opt for DIY repair, you not only run all the aforementioned risks but you may also end up breaking the law and endangering the lives of your loved ones and neighbors alike.
Where can I find one of the leading plumbing companies in Carmel Valley, CA & beyond?
If you need reliable pros to take care of your toilet problems, deal with stubborn slow drainage troubles, solve your leaky faucet headaches, or mitigate any other water-related issue, San Diego Emergency Plumbing is always ready to jump in at the deep end and show why we’re the best plumbing experts in the entire Monterey County and beyond.
With the latest high-tech gadgets, scrupulous attention to detail, and a seamless process that looks to inconvenience you as little as possible, we’ve developed a reputation for effectiveness and the ability to react on a moment’s notice. Don’t wait a minute more, get in touch with us ASAP!
