A device present in most co-ownerships (condominiums), the water heater has an essential role in the comfort of all occupants of the immovable; it is thus one of the electrical appliances that is most solicited in housing establishments because it provides domestic hot water use for various purposes such as showering, hand washing and laundry.
The operating mode of a water heater is simple: under pressure, cold water enters either through the side, base or top of the tank as it empties to meet hot water needs; it is then heated by the elements and stored in a thermal insulated tank. Since the density of hot water is lower than that of cold water, it gradually rises to the top of the tank.
The water heater is an electrical device equipped with a sacrificial magnesium or aluminum anode designed to extend its life; with the presence of electrolysis, the anode burns slowly thus protecting the vitrified tank against corrosion.
Estimated lifespan
Although a thermal storage water heater lasts on average 8 to 10 years, it is impossible to predict with certainty when it will need to be replaced; therefore, warning signs of a defect require an immediate response to avoid water damages. Dysfunctional water heaters show several anomalies that need to be recognized; here are some examples:
Furthermore, to know the actual age of a water heater, it is usually sufficient to look at the descriptive plate of the device glued to the outer surface of the tank; it indicates the month and year of manufacture. However, for some models, only a serial number of the device is listed which will require a search on the manufacturer's website to find out the age.
Verification
A water heater should be inspected visually from time to time for any potential water leaks in the holding tank or on the floor. Some models require, at least once a year, manual activation of the temperature and pressure relief valve; if this valve continues to leak even after activation, it will need to be replaced.
Replacement
Replacing a water heater requires specific knowledge and skills; its implementation requires:
This is why only a contractor who is a member of the Quebec Pipe Master Mechanics Corporation (Corporation des maîtres mécaniciens en tuyauterie du Québec) (CMMTQ) who holds the appropriate contractor's licence should be called upon to install a water heater; it is not recommended for a co-owner to do this work himself because in the event of a problem, he would take full liability for the possible consequences.
Power shutdown
Most declarations of co-ownership have a clause requiring any co-owner, lessee (tenant) and occupant who is absent for more than a week, this period of time being able to vary from one declaration of co-ownership to another, to close their unit’s supply valve; this obligation does not apply to the power supply of the water heater. In this regard, it is important to remember that in order to prevent the formation of bacteria including Legionella pneumophila, the water temperature must be kept at 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit).
Water leak detectors
New technologies are available on the market to reduce the extent of water damages. The principle is straight forward: detection sensors are positioned near areas at risk, especially in the immediate vicinity of a water heater, sink, toilet or washing machine; these wireless sensors communicate with an electronic valve installed on the main water entrance of the dwelling and if one of the sensors detects the presence of water, it will relay the information to this valve which will automatically shut down the water supply to the dwelling.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW! If absent for more than a month, the power or gas supply to a water heater should be interrupted as some of the water in the tank may evaporate; as a result, the heating element could be damaged. Upon arrival, it is essential to restart the water heater; in order to irradiate the bacteria, two to three hours will be enough to bring the temperature of the water to 60 degrees Celsius. After a prolonged absence, in order to drain the water accumulated in the pipes, it is essential to let the hot water run from the shower for several minutes.
WHAT TO KEEP IN MIND: More and more Quebec co-ownerships are opting to install a system in all their units to detect water leaks; this practice has become necessary since several claims have had a negative impact on insurance premiums and deductibles.
WARNING! To avoid water damage, water heaters should be at the top of the list of appliances to be placed under close surveillance; identifying their installation date along with a plumber's invoice and a replacement schedule is a preventative approach that should pay off and these devices must be replaced no later than every 10 years because if not, the risk of leaks will increase significantly.
