Depending on where you live, mild weather or severe cold may be typical in the wintertime. Either way, your water heater works harder when the temperature drops outside. 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 on the inside of the tank or tankless unit will freeze and expand, permanently damaging 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 designed to be operational regardless of how cold the weather is. Nonetheless, it is always prudent to take safety measures if bitter cold temps are heading your way, even more so if your water heater is set up outside.
Drain the Water Heater
Before departing on an extended vacation this winter, give thought to emptying the water heater to avoid a plumbing crisis while you’re away. You may want to drain the tank if there is a power blackout to avoid potential freezing. For added protection, you might choose to install a freeze protection solenoid valve, which opens conveniently and drains the water heater during a power outage.
Here’s how to drain a water heater tank by hand:
- Shut off the cold-water supply valve, gas supply valve, and temperature control knob.
- Flip the circuit breaker supplying power to the water heater.
- Attach a hose to the drain valve or place a bucket under it to capture the water.
- Open the valve to create the flow of water.
- Don't stop draining until the tank is empty, then close the valve.
Let the Water Run - A Little
Give some thought to leaving 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 averting a frozen water heater. This technique also helps reduce the risk of frozen and burst pipes.
Install Insulation
Plumbing insulation comes in many forms. You can insulate your water heater tank with a specific blanket to help reduce standby heat loss and give protection against cold weather.
Not surprisingly, pipes are more inclined to freeze than water heaters. Beyond running a trickle of hot water, you can shield exposed pipes situated outside or along exterior walls by wrapping them in foam insulation. You can also install electric heat tape to keep the pipes just above freezing. Only a few types of heat tape are compatible with insulation, so read the instructions 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 faster, reducing the wait time and reducing the quantity of water that pours down the drain. A hot water recirculation system is simple, water-wise and energy-efficient. It also keeps your pipes warm in the winter and makes your tankless water heater less susceptible to freezing. These bundled benefits could justify the installation cost, especially in cold climates.
Pick a Suitable Installation Spot
The majority of North American households have indoor water heaters. But, in mild southern climates, water heaters are occasionally installed in the garage or even outside. While this practice is fine for those climates, the unexpected deep freeze can have catastrophic effects on outdoor water heaters. As such, you should demand that your next water heater be placed inside, or at least in a covered location sheltered from the wind.
Choose a Water Heater with Built-In Freeze Protection
The majority of tankless water heaters have built-in freeze protection that works in temperatures down to -22 degrees F. Make sure your next water heater has this feature, especially if the only option is to install it outside.
Different brands use different freeze-prevention methods. Several have an electric element that yields an adequate amount of heat to protect against internal freezing. Others light up the gas burners to warm a small amount of water and, in short, keep the tankless cabinet frost-free.
Regardless of the method, water heater freeze protection is only successful when utilized. First, check the unit to make sure this feature is switched on. Then, for protection during a power outage, consider buying a small portable generator, whole-home standby generator, or battery backup power supply for your tankless water heater.
Schedule Water Heater Services
For more information about your pipes or water heater possibly freezing this winter, turn to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Our well-trained plumbers can perform any water heater repair or replacement you need. We can also recommend 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.