Can Water Heaters Freeze?

Based on your location, mild weather or extreme cold may be the norm this winter. Either way, your water heater must work harder when the temperature drops outside. This makes many people ask the question — can water heaters freeze?  

While relatively rare, it’s actually not impossible for a water heater to freeze. The leading concern is that any standing water found in the tank or tankless unit will freeze and expand, destroying the appliance at the same time. If this happens, you may have no choice but to replace the water heater. 

Rest assured that water heaters are designed to stay operational despite how cold it gets outside. Still, it never hurts to take precautions if a deep freeze is in the forecast, especially if your water heater is placed outside. 

Drain the Water Heater 

Before heading out on an extended trip this winter, think about emptying the water heater to bypass a plumbing emergency while you’re away. You might also wish to drain the tank if there is a power blackout to avoid possible freezing. To provide greater comfort and security, you might choose to install a freeze protection solenoid valve, which opens instantly and drains the water heater during a power outage. 

Here’s how to accomplish this task yourself: 

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. Attach a hose to the drain valve or place a bucket beneath it to catch 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. 

Allow Some Water to Run 

Consider letting a trickle of hot water flowing from a faucet or two until the bitter temperature subsides. The small increase you’ll likely see on your next 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 specific blanket to help decrease standby heat loss and offer protection against cold weather.  

Obviously, pipes are more inclined to freeze than water heaters. In addition to running a trickle of hot water, you can protect exposed pipes located 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 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 faster, decreasing the wait time and reducing the volume of water that flows down the drain. A hot water recirculation system is simple, water-wise and energy-efficient. It also keeps your pipes warm in the winter and makes your tankless water heater less susceptible to freezing. These bundled benefits could warrant the installation cost, particularly in cold climates. 

Pick a Suitable Installation Spot 

Most North American properties have indoor water heaters. But, 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 rare deep freeze can have catastrophic effects on outdoor water heaters. For this reason, you should insist that your next water heater be setup inside, or at the very least in a covered area sheltered from the wind. 

Choose a Water Heater with Built-In Freeze Safeguards 

The majority of 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 option is to install it outside. 

Different brands use different freeze-prevention methods. Some have an electric element that yields just enough heat to prevent internal freezing. Others light up the gas burners to raise the temperature of a small amount of water and, in turn, keep the tankless cabinet frost-free. 

Regardless of the method, water heater freeze protection is only successful when turned on. First, check the unit to make sure this feature is activated. Then, for protection during a blackout, look into purchasing 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 perform 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 arrange a visit, please contact a Service Experts office near you today.