Can Water Heaters Freeze?

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

While extremely rare, it’s definitely 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, ruining the appliance along the way. If this happens, you may have no choice but to replace the water heater. 

Today’s water heaters are built to remain operational despite how cold the temperature drops. Even so, it is always prudent to take safety measures if bitter cold temps are heading your way, particularly if your water heater is installed outside. 

Drain the Water Heater 

Before departing on an extended trip this winter, think about bleeding out the water heater to prevent a plumbing disaster while you’re away. You might also wish to drain the tank if there is a power blackout to avoid potential 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 a step-by-step guide to walk you through it: 

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

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

3. Fasten a hose to the drain valve or place a bucket underneath it to catch the water. 

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

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

Allow Some Water to Run 

Give some thought to leaving 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 technique 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 special blanket to help decrease standby heat loss and provide protection against cold weather.  

Not surprisingly, pipes are more likely 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. It’s also possible to 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 instructions carefully if you plan to use them together. 

Put in a Hot Water Recirculation System 

The basic objective of this system is to move hot water to the tap faster, shortening the wait time and reducing the quantity 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 susceptible to freezing. These overall benefits could justify the installation cost, especially in cold climates. 

Select a Suitable Installation Spot 

Almost all North American homes 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 practice is reasonably safe in those specific climates, the occasional deep freeze can have ruinous effects on outdoor water heaters. Because of this, you should demand 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 Safeguards 

Most tankless water heaters have built-in freeze protection that works in temperatures down to -22 degrees F. The next tankless water heater that you buy should have this, especially if the only alternative is to install it outside. 

Different manufacturers use different freeze-prevention methods. Several have an electric element that supplies a sufficient amount of heat to protect against internal freezing. Others light up the gas burners to raise the temperature of a small amount of water and, as a result, keep the tankless cabinet frost-free. 

Whatever the method, water heater freeze protection is only successful when activated. First, check the unit to make sure this feature is engaged. Then, for protection during a power outage, think about investing in 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 complete 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 plan a visit, please contact a Service Experts office near you today.