Based on your location, mild weather or severe cold may be the norm this winter. Either way, your water heater works harder when the temperature drops outside the house. This makes many people ask the question — can water heaters freeze?
While extremely rare, it's definitely not impossible for a water heater to freeze. The leading concern is that any standing water inside the tank or tankless unit will freeze and expand, destroying the appliance at the same time. If this happens, you may have no choice but to replace the water heater.
Today's water heaters are engineered to be operational no matter how cold it gets outside. Still, it never hurts to take safety measures if bitter cold temps are heading your way, especially if your water heater is placed outside.
Drain the Water Heater
Before departing on an extended trip this winter, consider emptying the water heater to avoid a plumbing disaster while you’re away. You can also drain the tank if the power goes out to avoid potential freezing. To provide greater comfort and security, you might choose to install a freeze protection solenoid valve, which opens conveniently and drains the water heater during a power outage.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to walk you through it:
- Turn off the cold-water supply valve, gas supply valve, and temperature control knob.
- Flip the circuit breaker supplying electricity to the water heater.
- Fasten a hose to the drain valve or place a bucket beneath it to capture the water.
- Open the valve to begin the flow of water.
- Keep draining until the tank is empty, then close the valve.
Allow Some Water to Run
Think about keeping a trickle of hot water flowing from a faucet or two until the bitter temperature subsides. The small increase you'll likely see on your next water bill is well worth preventing a frozen water heater. This technique also helps counter frozen and burst pipes.
Install Insulation
There are many types of plumbing insulation that you can purchase. You can insulate your water heater tank with a unique blanket to help reduce standby heat loss and give protection against cold weather.
Of course, pipes are more inclined to freeze than water heaters. Along with running a trickle of hot water, you can cover exposed pipes located outside or along exterior walls by wrapping them in foam insulation. You can also install electric heat tape to warm the pipes above freezing point. Only some types of heat tape are compatible with insulation, so read the directions for use carefully if you plan to use them together.
Put in a Hot Water Recirculation System
The main purpose of this system is to move hot water to the tap rapidly, shortening the wait time and reducing the volume of water that is wasted down the drain. A hot water recirculation system is convenient, water-wise and energy-efficient. It also ensures your pipes are warmer and makes your tankless water heater less likely to freeze. These overall benefits could validate the installation cost, particularly in cold climates.
Pick a Suitable Installation Spot
Most North American homes have indoor water heaters. But, in mild southern climates, water heaters are once in a while installed in the garage or even outside. While this practice is reasonably safe in those specific climates, the unexpected deep freeze can have ruinous effects on outdoor water heaters. Because of this, you should insist that your next water heater be setup inside, or at least in a covered area sheltered from the wind.
Choose a Water Heater with Built-In Freeze Protection
A large number of tankless water heaters have built-in freeze protection that works in temperatures down to -22 degrees F. Don't buy a tankless water heater without this feature, especially if the only option is to install it outside.
Different products use different freeze-prevention methods. Some have an electric element that provides just enough heat to avoid internal freezing. Others spark the gas burners to heat a small amount of water and, in turn, keep the tankless cabinet frost-free.
No matter the method, water heater freeze protection is only successful when utilized. First, check the unit to make sure this feature is engaged. Then, for protection during a power outage, think about investing in a small portable generator, whole-home standby generator, or battery backup power supply for your tankless water heater.
Schedule Water Heater Services
To learn more about your pipes or water heater potentially freezing this winter, turn to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Our well-trained plumbers can accomplish any water heater repair or replacement you need. We can also propose steps to help your pipes and plumbing appliances last longer in any weather. For more information or to schedule a visit, please contact a Service Experts office near you today.