Can Water Heaters Freeze?

Dependent upon where you live, mild weather or harsh cold may be the norm this winter. Either way, your water heater must work harder when the temperature drops outside the house. This makes many people ask the question — can water heaters freeze?  

While extremely rare, it’s actually not impossible for a water heater to freeze. The biggest concern is that any standing water found in the tank or tankless unit will freeze and expand, destroying the appliance along the way. If this happens, you may be left with no alternative but to replace the water heater. 

Rest assured that water heaters are built to be operational no matter how cold it gets outside. Nonetheless, it is always prudent to take safety measures if a deep freeze is in the forecast, particularly if your water heater is set up outside. 

Drain the Water Heater 

Before heading out on an extended getaway this winter, think about draining the water heater to bypass a plumbing emergency while you’re away. You may want to drain the tank if the power goes out to avoid potential freezing. For added protection, you could 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: 

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

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

3. Attach a hose to the drain valve or place a bucket beneath it to collect the water. 

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

5. Don’t stop 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 bitter temperature subsides. The resulting slight increase in your water bill is well worth preventing a frozen water heater. This method 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 unique blanket to help minimize standby heat loss and provide protection against cold weather.  

Of course, pipes are more prone to freeze than water heaters. Beyond running a trickle of hot water, you can shield exposed pipes found outside or along exterior walls by wrapping them in foam insulation. You can also install electric heat tape to ensure the pipes don’t drop in temperature below freezing. Only some 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 intent of this system is to transfer hot water to the tap quicker, shortening the wait time and reducing the quantity of water that flows down the drain. A hot water recirculation system is simple, 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. But, in mild southern climates, water heaters are once in a while installed in the garage or even outside. While this practice is perfectly safe most of the time, the rare deep freeze can have negative effects on outdoor water heaters. For this reason, you should require that your next water heater be placed inside, or at least in a covered spot sheltered from the wind. 

Choose a Water Heater with Built-In Freeze Protection 

Most 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 manufacturers use different freeze-prevention methods. Some have an electric element that provides a sufficient amount of heat to protect against internal freezing. Others spark the gas burners to heat a small amount of water and, as a result, keep the tankless cabinet frost-free. 

Regardless of the method, water heater freeze protection is only helpful when activated. First, check the unit to make sure this feature is activated. Then, for protection during a power outage, consider purchasing a small portable generator, whole-home standby generator, or battery backup power supply for your tankless water heater. 

Schedule Water Heater Services 

To learn more 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.