Can Water Heaters Freeze?

Dependent upon where you live, mild weather or intense cold may be typical in the wintertime. Either way, your water heater has to work harder when the temperature drops outdoors. This prompts the question — can water heaters freeze?  

While relatively rare, it’s actually not impossible for a water heater to freeze. The primary concern is that any standing water on the inside of the tank or tankless unit will freeze and expand, ruining the appliance at the same time. If this happens, you may be left with no alternative but to replace the water heater. 

Rest assured that water heaters are designed to stay operational despite how cold the temperature drops. Nonetheless, it never hurts to take safeguards 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 getaway this winter, think about emptying the water heater to avoid a plumbing crisis while you’re away. You can also drain the tank if the power goes out to avoid possible freezing. For added protection, you could install a freeze protection solenoid valve, which opens instantly and drains the water heater during a power failure. 

Here’s how to accomplish this task yourself: 

1. Turn off the cold-water supply valve, gas supply valve, and temperature control knob. 

2. Flip the circuit breaker supplying power to the water heater. 

3. Connect a hose to the drain valve or place a bucket beneath it to capture the water. 

4. Open the valve to start the flow of water. 

5. Keep draining until the tank is empty, then close the valve. 

Let the Water Run – A Little 

Think about letting a trickle of hot water flowing from a faucet or two until the arctic cold weather subsides. The associated increase in your utility bill is well worth preventing a frozen water heater. This method also helps prevent 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 decrease standby heat loss and provide protection against cold weather.  

Not surprisingly, pipes are more likely to freeze than water heaters. Along with running a trickle of hot water, you can protect exposed pipes found 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 a few 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 primary objective of this system is to move hot water to the tap rapidly, decreasing the wait time and reducing the quantity of water that pours down the drain. A hot water recirculation system is useful, water-wise and energy-efficient. It also ensures your pipes are warmer and makes your tankless water heater less susceptible to freezing. These paired benefits could validate the installation cost, especially in cold climates. 

Pick a Suitable Installation Spot 

Most North American properties have indoor water heaters. However, in mild southern climates, water heaters are occasionally installed in the garage or even outside. While this practice is reasonably safe in those specific climates, the occasional deep freeze can have ruinous effects on outdoor water heaters. For this reason, you should require that your next water heater be placed inside, or at the very least in a covered location sheltered from the wind. 

Choose a Water Heater with Built-In Freeze Safeguards 

Most 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 alternative is to install it outside. 

Different manufacturers use different freeze-prevention methods. Several have an electric element that provides just enough heat to prevent internal freezing. Others spark the gas burners to raise the temperature of a small amount of water and, as a result, keep the tankless cabinet frost-free. 

No matter the method, water heater freeze protection is only helpful when activated. First, check the unit to make sure this feature is engaged. Then, for protection during a blackout, consider purchasing 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 accomplish 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 arrange a visit, please contact a Service Experts office near you today.