Fatal Danger from Hot Water Heaters, Many Fall Victim

Most of us make this critical mistake—leaving the hot water heater on while bathing. Do not rely on the safety instructions sticker on the machine, and do not trust the electrical circuit breaker system. You are the true guardian of your own life.

Hot water heaters are not 100% as safe as you think

Even if deemed safe, there are still heartbreaking accidents

Former military technician, Mr. Nguyen Huy Bao, reveals various factors contributing to electrical leakage in water heaters. Misunderstandings often lead users to unknowingly jeopardize their safety and that of their families. Many mistakenly believe that the water heater's circuit breaker ensures constant electrical safety, leading them to leave it plugged in 24/7, even during showers.

In reality, the circuit breaker's sole purpose is to regulate water temperature. It automatically supplies power when the water temperature is low and cuts off power when it's high, not providing protection against electrical leakage. Continuous electrical connection can damage wiring, leading to malfunctions and electrical leakage.

Typically, electrical leakage in water heaters occurs when there's a connection between the wiring and the external environment. Corrosion, peeling, or damage to the insulation layer of the wiring can result in electrical leakage. Additionally, many consumers innocently take hot or cold showers without considering the aging of the water heater.

Regularly inspect your device to prevent electrical leakage incidents.

In practical usage, all devices are susceptible to corrosion and peeling, leading to electrical leakage. For instance, electrical wires bundled with water pipes over time can develop brittle and corroded insulation, causing electrical leakage. Moreover, the rubber insulating gasket connecting the wiring, tank casing, and conducting wires may crack and peel, allowing water to seep in and pose a danger to users.

Furthermore, it's crucial to recognize that the conductivity of water increases with its impurities. Therefore, a water heater experiencing electrical leakage with electricity in contact with impure water elevates the risk of electric shock compared to using clean water.

Always remember to turn off the water heater when not in use, especially during showers.

When using a water heater, keep these points in mind:

- Of course, the first thing is to turn off the water heater before showering to avoid electrical leaks. Only turn on the water heater 5-10 minutes before showering.

It's advisable to turn off the hot water switch before showering.

- Avoid using old and worn-out water heaters.

- The operational principle of a water heater involves heating, so it doesn't consume electricity during startup. Therefore, there's no need to keep the water heater on 24/7, which not only wastes electricity but also poses the risk of damage due to overloading.

- Regularly check by using a voltage tester on the water pipes or directly in the water. If there's any electrical presence, cut off power and thoroughly inspect the water heater to address the issue.

- Conduct routine maintenance on the water heater, inspecting all wiring.

- Install additional shock-prevention devices (some newer water heater models come with integrated shock-prevention devices). When signs of shock occur, this device will automatically disconnect the power. Important notes to be aware of:

- If someone is electrocuted due to a water heater, don't rush to rescue them. Quickly disconnect the power supply, then move the affected person outside and perform necessary first aid measures.

- Experts also warn that, apart from water heaters, irons, electric ovens, induction cookers, electric kettles, electric rice cookers, etc., all fall into the category of household electrical appliances with a high risk of leakage, fire, and explosion. The common operating principle of these devices involves the use of heating elements (resistors) to directly or indirectly generate heat, posing a significant risk of electrical leakage.

According to Vietq

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