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Scalding accidents are more common than you might think. They can be really dangerous, especially if you have kids and the elderly in your home. Did you know that over 100,000 people in the U.S. end up in emergency rooms every year because of scald burns? This stat is given by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
All this is because some homes neglect water heater maintenance, which can lead to faulty temperature control. When your appliance malfunctions, the water temperature can exceed 120°F, which can cause third-degree burns in just seconds. Water exceeding this temperature is too hot to handle. Such injuries can result in severe burns, leading to pain, permanent scarring, or even life-threatening complications.
It is important to get water heater repair - which can mitigate risks. Thus ensuring equipment operates safely and efficiently. Awareness, proper equipment settings, and proactive repairs are key to reducing these preventable accidents and safeguarding family well-being.
In this blog, we have discussed some major causes of scalding and how to prevent them.
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Here are some of the reasons why scalding happens -
1. Faulty Temperature Relief Valve
The job of the temperature relief valve is to prevent overheating. But when it fails, your “hot” water becomes dangerously hot - like “boiling soup” hot. This malfunction turns your water heater into a ticking scalding bomb.
2. Thermostat Set Too High
Everybody loves warm water and cozy showers. However, when your thermostat is set too high (above 120°F) - it’s not a cozy hot spring anymore. You’ll end up with skin-searing water instead of a cozy shower. Keep it below 120°F.
3. Sediment Buildup
Minerals buildup in the tank can cause the water heater to malfunction. It creates hotspots that overheat the water unpredictably.
4. Pressure Issues
High water pressure can disrupt temperature control. This makes your shower alternate between lukewarm and lava-like - and nobody wants to experience it. Get your water pressure checked to ensure there are no issues with it.
How To Prevent Scalding Accidents?
Scald-related accidents can be avoided by taking these necessary steps -
1. Test The Water
Test your water using a thermometer before jumping into the bathtub. It prevents injuries related to scalding and safeguards your children and older people or anyone with heat sensitivity. Here’s how you can test the water -
- Run the tap for a few seconds to ensure consistent water flow before testing.
- A thermometer is used to measure the water temperature accurately.
- Also, you can use your elbow or wrist to check the temperature.
- If the water feels too hot, add more cold water.
- Let the water run again.
Call a plumber if you see that your water heater is rapidly heating to the extent. This is because, it can cause explosion - resulting in serious injuries.
2. Adjust The Temperature
Adjusting your water temperature to a safer level is always recommended. This ensures your safety against accidental scalding during bathing, doing dishes, or using hot water taps.
Also, you can check the water temperature using your hands. When you open the tap, if the water seems comfortably warm at first, remember that it will continue to heat as it runs. Therefore, it is recommended to always turn your cold tap on as well - it will keep the water at a comfortable temperature.
3. Adjust the Water Heater
This is one of the most important tips that can protect you and your family from scalding accidents. You can, of course, adjust the water temperature depending on how hot the water is, so adjusting your water heater is the best way to ensure balanced water.
Before going in for a bath or using a hot water tap, ensure your water heater is set at 120°F. This reduces the risk of scalds. If you find anything suspicious - call the water heater contractor . They can help you adjust or repair your water heater.
4. One Tap Rule
The one-tap rule refers to the practice of using a single tap or faucet to balance cold and hot water. This ensures consistent water temperatures. This allows extremely hot water to mix with cold water before it reaches the body.
Also, ensure to teach everyone in your home that if one person is using the shower, no one should run a cold water tap or flush a toilet. This is because it causes cold water to move away from the shower, causing excessive hot water.
5. Install Safety Devices
Sometimes, we are so accustomed to our bathrooms that we overlook important safety measures. We advise you to get anti-scald valves for your bathtub and shower tub - which automatically mix hot and cold water. It is best to get and maintain a safe temperature.
Using a thermostat also can be wise. These safety devices ensure the water in your water heater maintains a balanced temperature. You can get in touch with the best water heater service i, which can suggest the best safety devices for your home.
6. Call A Professional Plumber
When you feel like your water heater is malfunctioning or heating too much - it is time to call a professional. Apart from that, you must always keep your appliances maintained to ensure everything is working fine.
They will also suggest the best thermostat that is tested and in compliance with standards such as ASSE 1070 or ASSE 1016.
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Takeaway
Small steps can make a big difference in preventing scalding injuries and promoting healthier lives. If you want to make your home and bathroom a safe place, start by taking preventive measures - the basic one to start with is educating yourself and your kids about the impact of water heater scalding accidents.
This way, you can avoid the risk of water heater scalding accidents. Prompt treatment, however, might lessen discomfort and promote healing if scald does occur.
Despite popular opinion, you should avoid directly applying ice or ice water to the burn. Hold the skin for five to ten minutes under cool running water instead. To lessen the pain, you can also apply a cool, damp cloth. Once your skin has cooled, use a lotion that contains aloe vera or cocoa butter. To protect the burn, a clean bandage is recommended. However, see a doctor if the discomfort lasts longer than two to three days.
But, try taking preventive measures to ensure any such incident does not take place.
Looking For Water Heater Service In Sacramento? Trust Preferred Plumbing And Drain!
If you have water heater issues - it is not recommended to DIY them. It can be dangerous and risky. You can get in touch with Preferred Plumbing and Drain - we would love to help you with your HVAC and plumbing issues.
Our experienced plumbers offer high-quality repairs and even help you choose the best water heater for efficient and safe usage. So, if you find your water heater is heating up too much or malfunctioning - let us know your issues. As we are available 24/7, we can assist you at any time of the day. That’s not all - we even help you with water heater maintenance and water heater installation Sacramento.
So, don’t wait for minor issues to become a major ones and cause severe accidents. Call us now to book an appointment.
