Water heaters are one of the most common electrical appliances that are used in every home. They are such an integral part of our daily lives that we barely realize how dangerous they can be!
A water heater is a device that involves high temperature,
water, and electricity at the same time. That means there’s always a chance of
mishaps. And that is why we must take necessary precautions to ensure the utmost
safety.
In this blog, we will provide you with relevant information
about the most important safety measures that you must follow while using a
water heater.
Professional installation
Many homeowners and landlords resort to installing shower
heads for themselves in order to save on time and cost.
This is highly discouraged due to electrical issues that
arise if the shower heads are not properly fitted.
If not properly installed, the shower head apart from
electrocuting you, can also affect your shower experience as well as increase
energy consumption.
Cabling
Even if you have tasked a professional to do the job, make
sure the right cables are used. Some electricians go for cheaper and low-quality
cables to save money.
Ideally, shower heads require quality 2.5mm diameter
cables to make sure they do not heat up and burn the insulating sheath to
expose the wire carrying the current to the water which can be deadly.
While cabling do not mix up the earth and live wires during
installation as it increases the possibility of being electrocuted.
Speaking exclusively to us, Jacob Nyambu who
is a certified electrician explained why good cabling is essential during
installation process.
"There is need to have a proper earthing during
installation otherwise the instant shower becomes a danger to the user,"
he explained.
"If there is electric fault, it passes through the
earth wire and should there not be one, your body acts as one and you get
instantly electrocuted," he warns.
Nyambu further warned that the switch should always be
placed outside the bathroom to prevent any chances of water getting in contact
with the electric current.
"If the switch is to be placed inside, then it must be
put on the ceiling and can be accessed through pulling a cord that does not
conduct electricity," he advised.
Height
When installing the shower head, make sure that it is not
lower than the head of the tallest person in the household.
This is very crucial to eliminate the risk of
short-circuiting.
Routine Check-up
Just like any other electrical appliance, there is a need
for routine check-ups to make
sure the shower head is working optimally.
This can be achieved by testing the temperature/pressure
relief valve, which is designed to keep the water
heater from exploding if the temperature or pressure exceeds the safe
limit.
If you open the pressure relief valve and water does not flow freely, you should immediately replace the valve.
Monitor the temperature settings regularly
As much as you enjoy a hot shower, using extremely hot water
is never a good idea. It is recommended to set your water temperature at 45-50
degrees Celsius. Make sure you keep checking the settings once in a while so
that even if someone else changes it by mistake, you can fix it.