Depending on where you live, mild weather or extreme cold may be ordinary this winter. Either way, your water heater has to work harder when the temperature drops outside. This prompts the question — can water heaters freeze?
While relatively rare, it's actually not impossible for a water heater to freeze. The leading concern is that any standing water within the tank or tankless unit will freeze and expand, destroying the appliance in the process. If this happens, you may be left with no alternative but to replace the water heater.
Now, it’s worth mentioning that modern water heaters are designed to remain operational no matter how cold the weather is. Nonetheless, it doesn't hurt to take safety measures if a deep freeze is in the forecast, especially if your water heater is placed outside.
Drain the Water Heater
Before going away on an extended vacation this winter, consider emptying the water heater to bypass a plumbing crisis while you’re away. You may want to drain the tank if the power goes out to avoid possible freezing. For added protection, you might choose to install a freeze protection solenoid valve, which opens instantly and drains the water heater during a power disruption.
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 delivering electric service to the water heater.
- Attach a hose to the drain valve or place a bucket under it to catch 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
Consider leaving a trickle of hot water flowing from a faucet or two until the cold snap subsides. The resulting slight increase in your water bill is well worth avoiding a frozen water heater. This technique also helps prevent 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 minimize standby heat loss and provide 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 shield exposed pipes located outside or along exterior walls by wrapping them in foam insulation. Another option is to install electric heat tape to ensure the pipes don't drop in temperature below freezing. Only certain types of heat tape are compatible with insulation, so read the product label 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 quicker, shortening the wait time and reducing the amount of water that is wasted down the drain. A hot water recirculation system is convenient, water-wise and energy-efficient. It also warms the pipes during the cold months and makes your tankless water heater less prone to freezing. These combined benefits could warrant the installation cost, especially in cold climates.
Select a Suitable Installation Spot
Almost all North American households have indoor water heaters. However, in mild southern climates, water heaters are once in a while installed in the garage or even outside. While this approach is fine for those climates, the unexpected deep freeze can have catastrophic 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 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. 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. Several have an electric element that supplies an adequate amount of heat to avoid internal freezing. Others light up 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 effective when activated. First, check the unit to make sure this feature is engaged. Then, for protection during a power failure, 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 answers to questions 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.